Warm, comforting, and packed with bold flavor, this Peruvian Chicken and Rice Casserole brings smoky spices and tender chicken together in one simple dish. As it bakes, the rice absorbs every drop of seasoned broth, creating a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-dish dinner
• Bold Peruvian-inspired spices
• Tender, juicy chicken
• Fluffy, flavorful rice
• Perfect for meal prep

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup frozen peas
• Juice of ½ lime
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. Season chicken with paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread rinsed rice evenly in the baking dish.
5. Stir onion and garlic into the rice.
6. Pour chicken broth over the rice mixture.
7. Place seasoned chicken thighs on top.
8. Cover tightly with foil and bake Peruvian Chicken and Rice Casserole for 35 minutes.
9. Remove foil, add peas, and bake 10 more minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
10. Rest 5 minutes, squeeze lime juice over top, garnish with cilantro, and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a drizzle of cilantro green sauce or sliced avocado. Pair with a simple tomato salad for freshness.

Quick Tips or Variations

• Use boneless thighs for faster cooking.
• Substitute brown rice and increase cook time.
• Add diced bell peppers for extra color.

Peruvian Chicken and Rice Casserole FAQs

What spices are used in Peruvian chicken casserole?

Cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, oregano, and chili powder create bold flavor.

Can you bake chicken and rice together?

Yes. The rice absorbs seasoned juices as it bakes.

How do you keep rice from drying out?

Cover tightly with foil and use enough broth.

What rice works best?

Long-grain white rice cooks evenly and stays fluffy.

Conclusion

This Peruvian Chicken and Rice Casserole combines bold spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice in one comforting dish. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.

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