Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice

BY

February 12, 2026

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice brings bold flavor to your table in under 30 minutes. The smoky spice blend pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, making it a simple yet vibrant meal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy air fryer chicken
  • Bold Peruvian-inspired spices
  • Quick 30-minute dinner
  • Simple pantry ingredients
  • Perfect for meal prep

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless 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
  • Juice of ½ lime

Rice

  • 1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
  2. Pat chicken dry and toss with olive oil, lime juice, and spices.
  3. Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  4. Cook Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. While chicken cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  6. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  7. Stir in rinsed rice and toast for 1 minute.
  8. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  9. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
  10. Remove from heat, rest 5 minutes, and fluff with a fork. Stir in cilantro.
  11. Slice chicken and serve over rice.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle with cilantro green sauce or serve with avocado slices. Add a simple tomato salad or black beans for extra color and flavor.

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • Add aji amarillo paste for authentic heat.
  • Swap white rice for brown rice and adjust cooking time.

Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice FAQs

Can you cook Peruvian chicken in an air fryer?

Yes. The air fryer creates crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy.

How long does it take to cook chicken in an air fryer?

Boneless thighs cook in 18–20 minutes at 380°F.

What spices are used in Peruvian chicken?

Cumin, paprika, garlic, oregano, and chili powder.

What rice goes best with Peruvian chicken?

Long-grain white rice or yellow rice pairs perfectly.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice delivers bold spices, crispy texture, and fluffy rice in one easy meal. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice


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  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice made with bold spices and fluffy rice for a quick dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs chicken thighs

1 tbsp olive oil

Smoked paprika

Cumin

Garlic powder

Oregano

Chili powder

Salt

Pepper

Lime juice

1.5 cups white rice

3 cups chicken broth

1 tbsp butter

1 garlic clove

Cilantro


Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F.

2. Season chicken.

3. Air fry 18–20 minutes flipping halfway.

4. Melt butter and sauté garlic.

5. Add rice and toast.

6. Add broth and simmer 18 minutes.

7. Rest and fluff rice.

8. Slice chicken and serve over rice.

Notes

Flip chicken halfway through cooking.

Let rice rest before fluffing.

Add green sauce for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Air Fryer and Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 630mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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Title: Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice Easy 30 Minute Dinner

Description: Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice packed with bold spices, crispy juicy chicken, and fluffy rice. Perfect quick weeknight meal.

Tags:
Air Fryer Peruvian Chicken with Rice, Peruvian chicken air fryer, easy chicken dinner, quick rice meal

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