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Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice for a Flavorful Feast

This Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of flavorful weeknight cooking.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Peruvian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Aji Verde Sauce
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro Use both stems and leaves
  • 1-2 each Jalapeño Peppers Deseed for less heat
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup Cotija or Parmesan Cheese Use queso fresco if unavailable
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is best
Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Thighs can be used as an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika for added depth
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Cilantro-Lime Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (Jasmine or Basmati) Brown rice or quinoa can substitute
  • 2 cups Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Broth enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil Can use vegan options
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro For garnish

Equipment

  • blender
  • Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Make the Aji Verde
  1. In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, jalapeños, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, garlic, fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend the mixture until smooth yet chunky.
Prepare the Chicken
  1. Slice the boneless skinless chicken breasts into thinner cutlets. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
Make the Cilantro-Lime Rice
  1. In a saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth (or water), butter, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. Layer cilantro-lime rice in bowls, arrange sliced chicken on top, and drizzle with aji verde sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a creamier aji verde, blend longer. Let chicken rest after cooking for juicier servings.

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