Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

this RECIPE

Introduction to Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re looking for a recipe that brings a burst of flavor and is perfect for those busy nights, let me introduce you to my favorite Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice. This dish is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about impressing your loved ones with an exotic twist that feels like a comforting hug. With zesty aji verde and fluffy cilantro rice, you’ll transform your dinner table into a culinary fiesta. Trust me, your family will be raving about this one, and it hardly takes any time at all!

Why You’ll Love This Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

This dish is a breath of fresh air during those hectic weeks! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. You can whip it up in just an hour, giving you more time to enjoy your evening. The combination of grilled chicken, zesty aji verde, and fluffy cilantro rice is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for everyone at the table!

Ingredients for Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need for your Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice:

• Cilantro: Both the stems and leaves bring a fresh burst of flavor to the sauce and rice.
• Jalapeño peppers: They add the perfect kick! You can choose to keep the seeds for extra heat, or remove them for a milder taste.
• Mayonnaise: This creamy base enhances the Aji Verde sauce’s texture and flavor profile.
• Cotija or Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this crumbled cheese adds a salty richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves are ideal for a robust, aromatic flavor.
• Lime juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dishes, adding a tangy zest.
• Olive oil: A drizzle helps to coat the chicken perfectly and aids in the grilling process.
• Fine salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing lean protein and tenderness when grilled.
• Ground cumin and paprika: These spices infuse warmth and depth into the chicken.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice, like Jasmine or Basmati, is light and fluffy, acting as the perfect base.
• Chicken broth: Using broth instead of water enriches the rice with additional flavor.
• Butter: This adds a hint of richness to the rice, creating a luscious texture.
• Fresh cilantro (finely chopped): Adds an extra burst of love to the rice just before serving.
• Cilantro leaves for garnish: Adding some fresh leaves on top is optional but looks lovely!

All the ingredients with exact quantities are at the bottom of the article, perfect for printing. With these flavors in hand, you’re on your way to creating a sensational meal that everyone will love!

How to Make Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into making this flavorful Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice. The process is straightforward, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal that makes your taste buds dance!

Step 1: Make the Aji Verde

First, we’ll whip up that vibrant Aji Verde sauce. Grab your blender or food processor and toss in the fresh cilantro, seeded jalapeños, mayonnaise, Cotija or Parmesan, peeled garlic cloves, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until it’s mostly smooth—stopping just short of a perfect purée keeps those lovely green flecks intact. Trust me, it looks beautiful and adds character!

Once blended, taste your creation. Adjust the salt or lime juice if it needs a little extra zing. Then, pop it in the fridge to chill while we focus on the chicken. Letting flavors meld always makes a difference!

Step 2: Prepare & Cook the Chicken

Next up, let’s prepare the chicken. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. In a bowl, drizzle your chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle on the ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good toss to make sure every piece is coated with those delicious spices.

Heat a grill pan or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in a single layer; be careful not to crowd the pan, as this ensures that the chicken gets that charred look we all love! Cook for 5–7 minutes per side until those lovely grill marks appear and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). After cooking, let it rest for about five minutes before slicing it into thick bite-sized pieces. This step keeps the juices locked in!

Step 3: Make the Cilantro-Lime Rice

Now, let’s focus on that fluffy cilantro-lime rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain white rice, water or low-sodium chicken broth, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a boil, and as soon as it bubbles, reduce the heat to low and cover it up.

Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Once ready, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This is the secret to fluffy rice! After that, you’ll fluff it with a fork and fold in the fresh cilantro and lime juice to add that zing!

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Finally, it’s time to bring this masterpiece together! Start by spooning a generous base of the cilantro-lime rice into each bowl. Top it off with sliced Peruvian-style chicken and generously drizzle that zesty aji verde sauce over everything. Finish with a sprinkle of extra cilantro leaves for a fresh touch. Serve it hot, and watch your family dig in with excitement!

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip resting the chicken! This keeps it juicy and tender.
• For creamier Aji Verde, blend for an extra 30 seconds.
• If you prefer more heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in the sauce.
• Incorporate broth to enhance the rice’s flavor; it’s worth it!
• Prep ingredients ahead of time to save on cooking day!

Equipment Needed for Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

• Blender or Food Processor: Essential for making aji verde; a hand mixer can work too.
• Grill Pan or Large Skillet: Great for searing chicken; an outdoor grill is fantastic when the weather permits.
• Medium Saucepan: Used for cooking rice; any durable pot with a lid will suffice.
• Meat Thermometer: Handy for checking chicken doneness; it takes the guesswork out of cooking.

Variations of Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

• Grilled Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp marinated in the same spices for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu instead of chicken for a hearty plant-based meal.
• Quinoa Base: Substitute the rice with quinoa for an extra protein boost and a nutty flavor.
• Spicy Aji Verde: Add more jalapeños or even a touch of hot sauce to your aji verde for those who crave heat.
• Herbed Rice: Mix in different herbs like parsley or dill into your rice for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions for Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

• Pair with a refreshing avocado salad for a creamy contrast.
• Serve alongside crispy plantain chips for a delightful crunch.
• Complement with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing sip.
• Garnish bowls with lime wedges for an extra zing.

FAQs about Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Can I make the Aji Verde sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Aji Verde keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Making it ahead can save time on busy nights!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

Can I freeze the chicken and rice?

Yes, you can freeze both the chicken and rice! Just cool them completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. They should last for about 2 months.

What other sides would pair well with this dish?

Consider serving grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad on the side. They add a lovely crunch and balance the meal beautifully.

Can I adjust the spice level of the chicken?

Of course! Scale back the amount of jalapeño or skip it entirely for a milder flavor. You can always serve additional Aji Verde on the side for those who like it spicy.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice isn’t just about whipping up a meal; it’s about creating joyful moments around the dinner table. This vibrant dish is sure to spark laughter, stories, and maybe even a dance or two as you all indulge in the rich flavors. It brings a taste of adventure into our busy lives, allowing you to savor the essence of Peruvian cuisine from the comfort of your kitchen. So gather your family and friends, and let this recipe be the highlight of your next dinner. Happiness is just a plate away!

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