As the sun sets and the aroma of spices fills the kitchen, one dish always brings a spark of excitement: Nando’s Inspired Portuguese Chicken and Rice. This one-pot sensation takes me straight to the vibrant streets of Portugal, where bold flavors dance on every plate. With juicy, marinated chicken thighs surrounded by fluffy basmati rice soaked in rich broth, it’s hard to believe something so delicious can come together so quickly.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking to shake up those mundane weeknight meals, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can adjust the heat or switch out ingredients, tailoring it to suit your taste. So grab your skillet and let’s embark on this delightful culinary journey together—your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice special?
Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot wonder simplifies meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner effortlessly.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices envelops the chicken and rice, creating a robust taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Customizable: Tailor it to your palate by adjusting the spice levels or swapping in seasonal veggies, making it perfect for any taste preference.
Quick & Nourishing: Ready in under an hour, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, ensuring a wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this dish offers a comforting experience that makes meal times even more enjoyable.
Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – A juicy protein source; skinless, boneless thighs work best, but chicken breast can be substituted if you don’t mind a drier texture.
• Paprika – Adds warmth and vibrant color; feel free to use sweet or regular paprika for that perfect taste.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is a great alternative for a more robust taste.
• Brown Sugar – Offers balance to the spices; the sweetness enhances the overall richness of the dish.
• Cooking Salt – Essential for overall flavor; opt for kosher salt for the best texture and taste.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional) – Provides an optional kick; adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
For the Aromatics
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used to cook chicken and sauté aromatics; it adds richness while enhancing flavors.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a zesty acidity; substitute with apple cider vinegar if you need.
• Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced garlic brings a delightful savory note to the dish.
• Onion – Sautéed to create a sweet and fragrant base for your flavor profile.
• Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) – Adds sweetness and color; any type of bell pepper will work beautifully.
For the Rice and Broth
• Basmati Rice – Absorbs the delicious flavors and broth perfectly; you could also use medium grain rice.
• Chicken Stock/Broth – The cooking liquid that infuses the rice; low-sodium stock is preferred for better control of salt.
• Turmeric Powder – Adds earthy flavor and a beautiful yellow hue to the dish.
Optional Add-Ins
• Frozen Peas (optional) – A nutritious addition; can be omitted if needed.
• Chili Flakes (optional) – For extra heat; adjust according to your taste for a customized dish.
• Perinaise or Hot Sauce – For serving, adding creaminess and additional spice.
• Green Onion – The perfect garnish to brighten up the dish with freshness and color.
Enjoy the experience of making Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice as much as you savor every bite!
How to Make Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice
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Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper; coat the chicken thighs thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for about 5 minutes, until they’re golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside, reserving the oil.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, lower the heat slightly, and add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, toss in the diced bell pepper and cook until softened, around 4 minutes.
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Combine & Cook: Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring it’s well-coated in the aromatic oil. Pour in the chicken stock, sprinkle turmeric, and add any frozen peas if using. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce heat. Cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Rest & Fluff: Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes. This crucial step prevents mushiness. After resting, fluff the rice with a fork until light and fluffy.
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Serve: Plate your dish, drizzling with Perinaise or your favorite hot sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side of garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the bold flavors of this one-pot wonder.
- Garden Salad: A fresh medley of greens and veggies brightens the plate and adds a crisp texture to your meal. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for an extra kick.
- Garlic Bread: The comforting warmth of garlic bread pairs perfectly, offering a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and rice while soaking up the delicious juices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies, like zucchini and bell peppers, deepen the flavor palette amid the spices, adding nutritional value and crunch.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A twist on traditional rice, the freshness of cilantro and zesty lime complements the seasoning in your chicken dish while keeping it light and refreshing.
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A dollop of creamy yogurt balances the heat and richness, providing a cool contrast that enhances each bite of flavorful chicken and rice.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio harmonizes beautifully, cutting through the spice and enrichening your dining experience with a refreshing sip.
These pairings not only enhance your meal but also create a symphony of flavors that your family will savor together!
How to Store and Freeze Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pot with a splash of chicken stock to restore moisture.
Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, cool completely before sealing; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, warm in a pot over low heat, adding a little chicken stock if needed to keep it tender and flavorful.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the chicken and chop vegetables in advance, storing them in the fridge to save time on cooking day.
Expert Tips for Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice
Quality Chicken: Choose skinless, boneless thighs for optimal juiciness. Avoid using chicken breast if you desire moist meat; it tends to dry out.
Heat Moderation: Cook on medium heat to prevent the rice from becoming undercooked or the bottom from burning. Adjust your heat as necessary for perfect results.
Resting Matters: After cooking, let the dish rest uncovered for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb excess moisture, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Fresh Is Best: Using fresh garlic or shallots enhances flavor significantly. You might also consider adding chopped herbs like cilantro at serving time for an extra burst of freshness.
Don’t Rush It: Avoid lifting the lid while cooking; it traps steam and ensures that each grain of basmati rice cooks evenly, creating that signature fluffy perfection.
Enjoy creating your Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice!
Make Ahead Options
These Nando’s Inspired Portuguese Chicken and Rice are fantastic for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken thighs and marinate them up to 24 hours in advance, locking in those delicious flavors. Additionally, chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, combine them with the marinated chicken and rice, and cook as directed. This upfront prep helps ensure that the dish is just as flavorful and comforting, delivering a delightful family meal with minimal effort when you need it most.
Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Variations
Customizing this delightful one-pot recipe opens the door to endless flavor experiences, making every meal an adventure.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken thighs for tofu or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based alternative.
- Spice it Up: Increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh chopped chilies to elevate the heat for spice lovers.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness and green.
- Seasonal Veggies: Toss in vegetables such as zucchini, carrot, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
- Rice Options: Replace basmati rice with wild rice or quinoa for a nutritious twist and different texture.
- Coconut Flare: Substitute chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor that enhances richness.
- Smoky Depth: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular for a deliciously smoky flavor that deepens the dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated cheese, like cheddar or feta, just before serving for a rich, creamy touch.
Let your culinary creativity shine and make this dish uniquely yours!
Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken thighs for the best results, as they stay juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more easily if not cooked carefully.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot with a splash of chicken stock to restore moisture and prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice?
Yes, you can! For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a little stock to keep it moist.
What should I do if my rice is undercooked after the cooking time?
If you find your rice is undercooked after the initial 15 minutes, don’t worry! Simply add an additional splash of chicken stock or water, cover the pot again, and simmer for 5 more minutes. This will help steam the rice until it’s fully cooked and fluffy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This dish can easily be adjusted for dietary needs; for a gluten-free version, ensure you use gluten-free chicken stock. For those with allergies, you can swap ingredients like bell peppers or peas based on your preferences. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, consider substituting the chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
What if I prefer a milder flavor?
I often make this dish with varying spice levels! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili flakes. You can experiment with using sweet paprika exclusively, which still offers color and taste without added heat.
Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice: One-Pot Perfection!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper; coat the chicken thighs thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for about 5 minutes, until they’re golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside, reserving the oil.
- In the same pot, lower the heat slightly, and add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, toss in the diced bell pepper and cook until softened, around 4 minutes.
- Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring it's well-coated in the aromatic oil. Pour in chicken stock, sprinkle turmeric, and add any frozen peas if using. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top, bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce heat. Cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes. This crucial step prevents mushiness. After resting, fluff the rice with a fork until light and fluffy.
- Plate your dish, drizzling with Perinaise or your favorite hot sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.