Save to Pinterest Transport yourself to Portugal with this vibrant Nandos-style chicken and rice dish that brings together smoky paprika, aromatic spices, and tender chicken thighs in perfect harmony. This one-pot wonder delivers all the bold, spicy flavors of Portuguese cuisine without the fuss of multiple dishes to clean. The succulent chicken thighs are coated in a mouthwatering blend of paprika, garlic, and herbs before being nestled into fragrant rice that absorbs all those incredible flavors as it cooks.
Save to Pinterest The secret to this Portuguese-inspired dish lies in the aromatic spice blend that transforms ordinary chicken thighs into something extraordinary. The combination of paprika, garlic, oregano, and coriander creates that signature Nandos-style flavor that's both comforting and exciting. As the chicken simmers with the rice, all those wonderful spices infuse every grain, creating a cohesive dish where each bite delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken: 1 kg skinless, boneless chicken thighs, 2 tbsp paprika (sweet or regular), 1 tbsp garlic powder (or 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced), 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tbsp ground coriander, 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat), 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- For the Cooking Base: 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar), 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 medium onion, chopped, 1 medium red bell pepper (capsicum), deseeded and diced
- For the Rice: 1.5 cups basmati rice (or long/medium grain rice), rinsed, 1 tsp chili flakes (optional), 1 tsp turmeric powder, 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth, 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- For Garnishing: Perinaise or hot sauce, to taste, 2 stalks green onion, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken
- In a large bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and toss until thoroughly coated. Set aside.
- Sear the chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken thighs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden-brown (they'll finish cooking with the rice). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics
- In the same pot, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 1–2 minutes until softened.
- Prepare the rice base
- Add the rinsed rice to the pot. Stir to coat the grains in the aromatic oil and vegetables.
- Add liquids and seasonings
- Stir in lemon juice, chili flakes (if using), turmeric, chicken stock, and frozen peas (if using). Mix well.
- Combine and simmer
- Arrange the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Rest and fluff
- Remove from heat and let the pot rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, mixing the chicken and rice together.
- Serve
- Serve in bowls, drizzle with Perinaise or your preferred hot sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the most flavorful result, don't rush the searing process. Those golden-brown bits at the bottom of the pot are flavor gold that will infuse into your rice. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add extra chili flakes. The turmeric not only adds flavor but also gives the rice its beautiful golden color, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile dish welcomes many adaptations. For a heartier meal, add chorizo or spicy Portuguese sausage along with the chicken. Make it vegetarian by replacing the chicken with chickpeas or large portobello mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. For a lower-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice for half of the basmati rice, adjusting the cooking liquid accordingly.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Nandos Portuguese Chicken and Rice in wide bowls for maximum visual impact. A side of simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a perfect accompaniment to balance the richness. For an authentic Portuguese experience, serve with a side of quick-pickled vegetables or olives. Don't forget a dollop of Perinaise or your favorite hot sauce on top for that extra kick that makes Nandos-style dishes so addictive.
Save to Pinterest This Nandos Portuguese Chicken and Rice isn't just a meal; it's a mini-vacation to Portugal in each bite. With minimal prep and just one pot, you'll create a feast that brings everyone to the table with anticipation. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, aromatic rice, and vibrant vegetables makes this dish a regular request in many households. Whether it's for a weeknight family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe delivers big flavor with little effort – exactly what modern cooking should be all about.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be substituted but may require a shorter cooking time to avoid dryness.
- → What kind of rice works best for this dish?
Basmati or long-grain rice is ideal as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well without becoming mushy.
- → Is it necessary to sear the chicken before cooking?
Searing adds a golden crust and deepens flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
- → Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, diced bell peppers and peas complement the flavors and texture perfectly, as included in the cooking base.
- → How should I adjust the spices for less heat?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili flakes to make the dish milder without compromising flavor.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to preserve the texture of the rice and chicken without drying out.