Peruvian Chicken and Rice, also known as “Arroz con Pollo,” is a beloved classic in Latin American cuisine. This one-pan dish combines tender, golden-seared chicken with a rich and fragrant cilantro-infused rice, creating a satisfying and well-balanced meal. The blend of warm spices, garlic, and onion adds depth to the flavors, while the fresh lime wedges bring a refreshing citrus touch.
This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week, as it’s both comforting and nutritious. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a show-stopping meal that’s easy to prepare yet feels like a special treat. Whether you’re new to Peruvian flavors or already a fan, this chicken and rice dish is bound to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cilantro leaves, packed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
- Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Blend the cilantro with 1/2 cup of chicken broth until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet.
- Stir in the remaining chicken broth, rice, frozen peas, and turmeric.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Serve warm with fresh lime wedges on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Peruvian Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful One-Pot Meal
Peruvian cuisine is known for its rich and bold flavors, and Peruvian Chicken and Rice, or Arroz con Pollo, is one of the most comforting and satisfying dishes you can make at home. This dish is a perfect combination of well-seasoned chicken and fragrant rice infused with the flavors of fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an easy one-pan meal that is ideal for busy weeknights.
The Origins of Peruvian Chicken and Rice
Arroz con Pollo is a dish with deep historical roots in Latin America, with variations found across different regions. The Peruvian version of this dish is particularly distinct due to its use of cilantro-based rice, which gives it a vibrant green color and a fresh, aromatic flavor. The dish is influenced by Spanish cuisine, which introduced rice and various spices to South America. Over time, Peruvian cooks adapted the recipe, incorporating local ingredients such as aji amarillo (Peruvian yellow pepper), cilantro, and lime to create a unique variation that is now a staple in Peruvian households.
What Makes This Dish Special?
The magic of Peruvian Chicken and Rice comes from the balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is first seared to develop a rich golden crust, locking in the juices while also creating a deep, savory flavor. The rice, infused with a blend of cilantro, onions, garlic, and broth, becomes rich and fragrant. The addition of vegetables like peas and red bell peppers adds sweetness and crunch, creating a well-rounded dish that is satisfying and wholesome.
Unlike traditional Latin American Arroz con Pollo, which often has a yellowish color due to saffron or annatto, the Peruvian version stands out with its deep green hue, thanks to the use of blended cilantro. The herbs not only add color but also enhance the depth of the dish, making it a truly unique take on the classic chicken and rice combination.
Key Ingredients That Define Peruvian Chicken and Rice
- Chicken: Traditional recipes use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor. The fat from the skin adds richness, while the bone helps keep the meat juicy.
- Cilantro: The main ingredient responsible for the dish’s signature green color and herbaceous flavor. Blending cilantro with broth releases its aroma and ensures even distribution throughout the rice.
- Spices: Cumin, paprika, black pepper, and turmeric contribute warmth, smokiness, and color.
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and bell peppers create a base of deep, layered flavor.
- Rice: Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, absorbs the rich broth without becoming mushy.
- Peas and Bell Peppers: These ingredients provide texture and a mild sweetness that balances the bold flavors of the dish.
- Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end enhances the flavors, adding a bright, tangy finish.
The Cooking Technique: One-Pot Simplicity
One of the best things about Peruvian Chicken and Rice is that it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup and a more convenient cooking process. Cooking everything in the same pan allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Here’s how the technique works:
- The chicken is seared first, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
- The aromatics (onion, garlic, bell pepper) are sautéed, picking up all the delicious bits left in the pan from the chicken.
- The cilantro mixture and broth are added, infusing the rice with a vibrant green color and bold flavors.
- The chicken is returned to the pot, cooking alongside the rice to ensure every bite is infused with the same depth of flavor.
- The dish is covered and simmered, allowing the rice to cook to perfection while absorbing all the rich, seasoned broth.
Why You Should Try Peruvian Chicken and Rice
There are several reasons why this dish should be on your weekly meal rotation:
✔️ Easy to Make: While it looks fancy, this dish comes together with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
✔️ Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the herbs and vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal for the whole family.
✔️ Bold and Flavorful: Each bite is a perfect blend of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and bright, citrusy notes.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Tips for the Best Peruvian Chicken and Rice
💡 Use Fresh Cilantro: Fresh herbs make all the difference in achieving the dish’s signature flavor and color.
💡 Toast the Rice Before Adding Liquid: Lightly toasting the rice in oil for 1-2 minutes before adding broth enhances its texture and nuttiness.
💡 Don’t Rush the Chicken Browning Step: Getting a nice golden sear on the chicken locks in moisture and creates layers of flavor.
💡 Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fully absorb the flavors.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Peruvian Chicken and Rice
While Peruvian Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance the experience with side dishes and drinks that complement its flavors:
- Crisp Salad: A simple avocado and tomato salad with a lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the dish.
- Plantains: Fried or baked sweet plantains offer a delicious contrast to the savory chicken and rice.
- Aji Verde Sauce: This spicy Peruvian green sauce made with cilantro, jalapeños, and lime is perfect for drizzling over the dish.
- Peruvian Chicha Morada: A refreshing purple corn drink that complements the meal with its sweet and fruity notes.
How to Store and Reheat Peruvian Chicken and Rice
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel over the dish to retain moisture.
Conclusion
Peruvian Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors, culture, and tradition. From the bold cilantro-infused rice to the perfectly seasoned juicy chicken, every bite tells a story of Peru’s rich culinary heritage. This dish is the perfect choice for anyone looking to explore new flavors while keeping dinner simple and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or trying something new in the kitchen, this one-pot meal will impress with its incredible taste and easy preparation. Try making it at home, and you might just discover your new favorite comfort dish!