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Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice

Savor Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice Delight

Experience the burst of flavors in this Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice, a delightful weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Peruvian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Aji Verde Sauce
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro Substitute with parsley for a different herbal note.
  • 2 medium Jalapeño Peppers Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute half with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 cup Cotija or Parmesan Queso fresco can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Always use fresh for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice May replace with lemon juice if necessary.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Vegetable oil may be used.
  • to taste Salt Use fine salt for better incorporation.
  • to taste Pepper
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Slice into thinner cutlets.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Adjust quantity to suit taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Can substitute with smoked paprika.
For the Cilantro-Lime Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (Jasmine or Basmati) Substitute with quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Substitute with additional olive oil for dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Feel free to omit if not a fan.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice Replace with lemon juice if necessary.
  • 2 cups Water or Broth Low sodium if using vegetable broth.

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Grill Pan
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a blender, combine fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, mayonnaise, Cotija or Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until mostly smooth but slightly textured—about 30 seconds. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into thinner cutlets. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and sear the chicken cutlets for 5–7 minutes on each side until cooked through to 165°F (74°C). Allow to rest briefly before slicing.
  3. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork, mixing in cilantro and lime juice.
  4. Layer a portion of cilantro-lime rice in each bowl. Slice the chicken cutlets and place them on the rice. Drizzle a good amount of Aji Verde over the chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store cooked chicken and Aji Verde in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep cilantro-lime rice separate to maintain texture.

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