Spicy Peruvian Chicken with Lime Rice

BY

February 12, 2026

Fresh, colorful, and packed with bold flavor, this Healthy Peruvian Chicken Rice Bowl delivers everything you love about Peruvian chicken in a balanced way. Juicy grilled chicken sits over fluffy rice with crisp vegetables and a drizzle of light cilantro sauce. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Lean, protein-packed grilled chicken
  • Fresh, colorful toppings
  • Light and flavorful cilantro sauce
  • Great for meal prep
  • Balanced and satisfying

Preparation and Cooking Time

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

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime

Bowls

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or white rice
  • 1 cup black beans, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Light Cilantro Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. Toss chicken with olive oil, lime juice, and spices.
  3. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then slice.
  5. Blend sauce ingredients until smooth.
  6. Build the Healthy Peruvian Chicken Rice Bowl by layering rice, beans, tomatoes, avocado, onion, and sliced chicken.
  7. Drizzle with cilantro sauce and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with lime wedges for extra brightness. Add roasted sweet potatoes or grilled corn for variety. Enjoy chilled sparkling water or iced tea alongside.

Quick Tips or Variations

  • Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
  • Marinate chicken up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
  • Add shredded cabbage for crunch.

Healthy Peruvian Chicken Rice Bowl FAQs

Is a Peruvian chicken rice bowl healthy?

Yes. Grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and controlled portions make it balanced and nutritious.

What makes it healthy?

Lean protein, fiber-rich toppings, and a lighter yogurt-based sauce.

How many calories are in a bowl?

Most servings range between 450–600 calories depending on portion size.

Can you meal prep it?

Yes. Store components separately for up to 4 days and add sauce before serving.

Conclusion

This Healthy Peruvian Chicken Rice Bowl combines bold spices, fresh ingredients, and balanced nutrition in one vibrant meal. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Print
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Spicy Peruvian Chicken with Lime Rice


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

Description

Healthy Peruvian Chicken Rice Bowl with grilled chicken, rice, fresh vegetables, and light cilantro sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs chicken

1 tbsp olive oil

Smoked paprika

Cumin

Garlic powder

Oregano

Chili powder

Salt

Pepper

2 cups cooked rice

1 cup black beans

Cherry tomatoes

Avocado

Red onion

Cilantro

1 cup cilantro

1 jalapeño

2 garlic cloves

2 tbsp lime juice

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

1 tbsp olive oil


Instructions

1. Preheat grill.

2. Season chicken.

3. Grill 6–7 minutes per side.

4. Rest and slice.

5. Blend sauce ingredients.

6. Assemble bowls with rice, toppings, and chicken.

7. Drizzle sauce and serve.

Notes

Use brown rice for extra fiber.

Store components separately for meal prep.

Adjust jalapeño for spice level.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grill
  • Cuisine: Peruvian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg


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