Today I bring you a fusion recipe where I will combine the classic Peruvian rice with chicken, quinoa, and Peruvian yellow pepper. Rice with chicken is prepared in Latin America and some parts of Spain with different styles and ingredients. So what’s so unique about this dish? Although this recipe uses the classic Peruvian rice and chicken, the main twist is in the quinoa and the sizzling yellow peppers.

Did you know Peruvian rice with chicken was born as a variation of rice with duck? It happened because chickens are less expensive and more accessible! The flavorsome chicken mixes well with organic rice and quinoa. With this recipe, your taste buds will tingle with the exquisite combination.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• Quinoa (rinsed)
• Organic rice (optional, for mixing with quinoa)
• Peruvian yellow pepper paste (ají amarillo)
• Cilantro paste (or fresh cilantro blended with water)
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Chicken broth
• Green peas
• Carrots (diced)
• Red bell pepper (chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Cumin (optional, for seasoning)
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro

How to Prepare Green Quinoa with Chicken (Peruvian style)​

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and cumin (if using).

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

4. Add garlic and Peruvian yellow pepper paste, cooking until fragrant.

5. Add the rinsed quinoa and rice (if using) to the pot, stirring well to coat with the sauce.

6. Stir in the cilantro paste and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

7. Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it is partially submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, and the quinoa is tender.

8. Stir in the green peas, diced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the liquid is absorbed.

9. Plate the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish.

How This Recipe Benefits Your Thyroid

1. Chicken Thighs

Rich in high-quality protein and selenium, chicken supports the production of thyroid hormones and helps protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress.

2. Quinoa

Quinoa is a gluten-free whole grain that provides essential amino acids and magnesium, which aid in thyroid hormone regulation and stress response.

3. Organic Rice

If included, rice offers an easily digestible carbohydrate source, providing steady energy without straining the thyroid.

4. Peruvian Yellow Pepper Paste (Ají Amarillo)

Packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, this paste helps reduce oxidative stress and supports immune health, vital for thyroid function.

5. Cilantro Paste

Cilantro contains antioxidants and detoxifying properties, helping to reduce heavy metal toxicity that can negatively impact thyroid health.

6. Garlic

Garlic supports detoxification and immune health, reducing inflammation associated with autoimmune thyroid conditions.

7. Onion

Rich in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, onion supports detoxification and reduces inflammation, aiding thyroid function.

8. Chicken Broth

Provides minerals like magnesium and potassium, which support thyroid hormone production and overall hydration.

9. Green Peas

High in vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein, peas help maintain balanced thyroid function and support metabolism.

10. Carrots

Rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, carrots support thyroid hormone production and immune health.

11. Red Bell Pepper

High in vitamin C, red bell peppers combat oxidative stress, supporting thyroid health.

12. Olive Oil

Rich in anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil promotes overall thyroid health.

13. Fresh Parsley or Cilantro

Parsley and cilantro offer antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and detoxifying properties, all beneficial for a healthy thyroid.

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Notes and information

I use organic ingredients as much as possible. This way, I can get beneficial nutrients and avoid harmful pesticides, hormones, and chemicals that affect our thyroid and health in general.