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Peruvian Chicken and Spiced Rice Recipe

4.9 from 135 reviews

This Peruvian Chicken and Rice recipe features tender, flavorful chicken seasoned with traditional spices, perfectly paired with aromatic, spiced rice. A simple yet authentic dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Peru to your table, ideal for a hearty family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Rice

  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric or achiote powder
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken seasoning: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring thorough coverage for maximum flavor.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until the chicken is cooked through, an additional 10-12 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, keeping warm.
  3. Sauté aromatics for rice: In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Cook the rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir well to coat the grains with oil and aromatics. Add chicken broth, turmeric (or achiote), bay leaf, and salt. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  5. Combine and serve: Remove bay leaf from rice. Serve cooked chicken thighs alongside the spiced rice, garnishing with fresh cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For a more authentic flavor, marinate chicken for 2 hours or overnight.
  • Use achiote powder instead of turmeric for traditional Peruvian color and taste.
  • Leftover chicken and rice can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.
  • Adjust spice levels by adding chili powder or fresh chili for heat.
  • Serve with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: Peruvian chicken, spiced rice, traditional Peruvian recipe, chicken and rice, Latin American cuisine