The Peruvian Chicken and Rice recipe is a celebration of bold Latin American flavors that comes together effortlessly in a single pot. Juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs rest on a bed of fragrant cilantro-lime rice, infused with spices and studded with colorful peas and peppers. This dish is as vibrant in taste as it is in appearance, offering a meal that feels both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday dinners, this recipe brings the warmth of Peruvian comfort food straight to your kitchen. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and can be customized with your favorite veggies or extra spice. Serve with lime wedges and a smile, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 small yellow onion, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
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1 ½ cups chicken broth
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 cup long grain rice
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1 cup frozen peas
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Lime wedges for serving
Directions:
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Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken on both sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
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Blend cilantro, chicken broth, and lime juice in a blender until smooth.
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Stir rice into the sautéed vegetables. Add cumin and paprika. Pour in the cilantro broth and stir well.
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Return chicken to the pot, nestling it into the rice. Bring to a simmer.
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Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
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Stir in frozen peas and let sit for 5 minutes, covered.
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Fluff rice with a fork and serve with lime wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Heart and Heritage of Peruvian Chicken and Rice
Peruvian cuisine is an incredibly vibrant tapestry of indigenous ingredients and cultural fusion, and at the heart of many Peruvian home kitchens is a simple yet satisfying meal: Arroz con Pollo, or Chicken and Rice. This dish is a beloved staple across Latin America, but Peru gives it a unique twist through the generous use of fresh herbs especially cilantro, alongside zesty lime and colorful vegetables. The result is a wholesome, flavorful one-pot meal that appeals to both traditional palates and modern foodies alike.
One of the key characteristics that sets Peruvian Chicken and Rice apart from other Latin American versions is its signature green hue and herby aroma, thanks to a cilantro and broth blend. It’s not just about flavor, it’s about personality. This dish reflects the vibrancy of Peruvian culture, from its bright markets to its warm family gatherings.
The Cultural Influence Behind the Dish
The beauty of Peruvian Chicken and Rice lies in its simplicity and deep cultural roots. Peru’s culinary history is a reflection of its indigenous heritage, mixed with Spanish colonial influence and later waves of immigration from Africa, China, and Japan. This blend has given rise to a cuisine that’s hearty, bold, and flavorful without being overly complex.
Chicken and rice dishes are found across the globe, biryani, jambalaya, paella, to name a few but what makes the Peruvian version stand out is its commitment to fresh herbs and spices. Cilantro is the superstar, bringing not just color but a bright, citrusy note that permeates the rice. Ground cumin and paprika add earthiness and warmth, while fresh lime juice enhances every bite with a refreshing zing. The use of bone-in or boneless chicken thighs ensures that the meat stays juicy and flavorful throughout cooking, adding to the richness of the dish.
Ingredients That Make It Special
Let’s take a moment to spotlight some of the key ingredients that bring this dish to life:
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Cilantro: Often referred to as “culantro” in Latin America, this herb is essential. Blending it into the broth infuses the rice with a bold, herby green flavor that defines the dish.
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Chicken Thighs: Preferred over breast meat for their juiciness and rich flavor, thighs hold up well to simmering and absorb all the surrounding flavors.
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Rice: Long-grain white rice is traditionally used because it becomes tender and fluffy while soaking up the green broth. You can also use jasmine rice or even brown rice for added nutrition.
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Aromatics: Garlic, onion, and bell pepper create a savory base. Their sweetness balances the herbal notes of cilantro.
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Spices: Ground cumin and paprika add earthy undertones and mild heat. Some variations also include turmeric for a deeper golden color.
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Chicken Broth and Lime Juice: This combo not only steams the rice but also acts as a flavor base that ties everything together with a zesty finish.
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Peas: Frozen peas are a common addition, bringing a touch of sweetness and extra color contrast.
This careful mix of ingredients ensures each forkful offers layers of flavor: herby, citrusy, savory, and slightly spicy, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice.
Customizing Your Chicken and Rice
One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or meal-prepping for the week, you can easily adapt it to your preferences or what you have on hand.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, corn, or green beans for added nutrition and texture.
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Make It Spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or a touch of aji amarillo paste (a traditional Peruvian yellow chili paste) to the cilantro blend.
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Use Brown Rice or Quinoa: Swap out white rice for whole grains for a more nutritious option. Just keep in mind that cooking times and liquid ratios will need adjusting.
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Top with Avocado: Add slices of ripe avocado for a creamy finish that balances the citrus and herbs beautifully.
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Make It Vegan: Skip the chicken and use hearty vegetables or plant-based protein like jackfruit or tofu. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Whether you stick with the classic version or make it your own, the essential appeal of Peruvian Chicken and Rice remains: it’s hearty, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
Cooking Method: One Pot, Minimal Fuss
Peruvian Chicken and Rice is traditionally cooked in a large pan or Dutch oven. The one-pot method is not only convenient for cleanup, but it also ensures that every element absorbs flavor from the others.
The process begins by searing the chicken until golden brown, locking in its juices. Then, the vegetables are sautéed, and the rice is toasted lightly with spices before being combined with the cilantro broth. As the dish simmers gently, the rice swells and absorbs the vivid green liquid, while the chicken finishes cooking through. A handful of peas goes in at the end for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
You’re left with a dish that looks, smells, and tastes like something that took hours to make but it comes together in under 45 minutes from start to finish.
Perfect Pairings for Peruvian Chicken and Rice
Although this dish is a complete meal in itself, it also pairs wonderfully with a few side options or garnishes:
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Fried Plantains: Sweet and crispy, they contrast beautifully with the herby rice.
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Simple Green Salad: Dressed with lime vinaigrette for a fresh complement.
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Pickled Red Onions: A tangy, vibrant condiment that adds a punch of acidity.
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Chicha Morada: A traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn, perfect to wash it down.
If you’re serving a crowd, consider a side of fresh-baked bread or soft tortillas to scoop up every last grain of green rice.
Nutritional Benefits
This meal is more than just delicious, it’s also nutritionally balanced. Chicken thighs provide protein and healthy fats, while rice and peas offer complex carbohydrates and fiber. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and using a homemade or low-sodium broth can help reduce the overall sodium content.
The one-pot preparation also means less oil and fewer processed ingredients than takeout versions or pre-packaged meals. For health-conscious cooks, it’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
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Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, one pan, and under 45 minutes to make.
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Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
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Kid-Friendly: Mild spices and familiar flavors appeal to picky eaters.
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Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
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Impressive Yet Simple: Looks gourmet, but anyone can master it.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, Peruvian Chicken and Rice is the kind of recipe that builds confidence and delivers big flavor.
Conclusion
Peruvian Chicken and Rice is a dish that speaks to both the soul and the stomach. It’s a story told through flavor, a blend of cultures and traditions wrapped up in the comforting aroma of cilantro and the tender bite of perfectly cooked chicken. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or trying to impress guests with something new, this dish is guaranteed to delight.
From its bright, herbaceous notes to its savory depth and easy one-pot cooking, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a taste of Peru from the comfort of your home.