Description
Peruvian Chicken with Aji Verde & Cilantro Rice is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of South American flavors. In just under an hour, you can enjoy perfectly seared chicken cutlets seasoned with cumin and paprika, smothered in a creamy, zesty aji verde sauce that combines fresh cilantro and jalapeños. Paired with fluffy cilantro-lime rice, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of bold spices and refreshing herby notes. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s a quick yet satisfying option that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, seeded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Cotija or Parmesan, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Aji Verde: Blend cilantro, jalapeños, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until mostly smooth. Refrigerate.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts into cutlets and marinate with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in a hot grill pan for 5–7 minutes per side.
- Cook Cilantro-Lime Rice: Boil rice with water or broth and butter; simmer until liquid absorbs. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
- Assemble: Serve rice topped with chicken slices and drizzle generously with aji verde.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg