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Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Savor Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice Delight

This Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice bursts with flavor and is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Peruvian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Aji Verde
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro Substitute with parsley for a different flavor profile.
  • 2 pieces Jalapeño Peppers Keep seeds for more heat or omit them for milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice Substitute with lemon juice in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
  • 1/4 cup Cotija or Parmesan Substitute with queso fresco if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adjust spices to your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust spices to your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust spices to your taste.
Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (Jasmine or Basmati) Brown rice or quinoa can be used for added nutrition.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (or Olive Oil) Omit for dairy-free options.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Mix into the rice for a refreshing burst.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice Substitute with lemon juice if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Salt

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Grill pan
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, jalapeños, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, garlic, fresh lime juice, olive oil, fine salt, and black pepper. Blend until mostly smooth but slightly chunky.
  2. Transfer the aji verde to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate while preparing the meal.
  3. Slice thick chicken breasts into cutlets, toss with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well-coated, and let sit for about 10 minutes.
  4. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat, add the chicken, and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  5. In a saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, butter (or olive oil), and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  6. After cooking, let the rice rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and mix in cilantro and lime juice.
  7. To assemble, place cilantro lime rice at the base, top with chicken slices, and drizzle with aji verde. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to even thickness for consistent cooking. Let aji verde chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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