Description
Peruvian chicken and rice is a bold and vibrant one-pot dish made with tender chicken thighs, fragrant cilantro rice, and a creamy ají amarillo sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend entertaining, this Latin classic is as comforting as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons ají amarillo paste
1 bunch fresh cilantro (about 1.5 cups packed)
1.5 cups chicken broth
1 cup long grain white rice
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/2 cup green peas
1/2 cup light beer or water
Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
Season chicken thighs with cumin, paprika, and salt. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
Blend cilantro, half of the garlic, and 1 cup chicken broth into a smooth green sauce.
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil and brown the chicken on both sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion and remaining garlic until soft. Add ají amarillo paste and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the cilantro sauce and stir well. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
Add rice, carrots, peas, remaining broth, and beer. Return chicken to the pot.
Cover and simmer on low for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff rice. Serve with lime wedges if desired.
Notes
Use long grain rice for best texture.
If ají amarillo paste is unavailable locally, you can find it on Amazon.
To make this dish spicier, add extra ají amarillo or a sliced jalapeño.
Cilantro stems can be used for extra flavor—no need to discard.
To make this vegetarian, replace chicken with tofu or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: peruvian chicken and rice, arroz con pollo, one pot peruvian chicken, cilantro rice, ají amarillo chicken