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Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

A flavorful one-pot dish that mimics the deliciousness of Nando’s famous chicken and rice, combining marinated chicken with seasoned rice for a crowd-pleasing meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: African, Portuguese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Rice
  • 4 pieces skin-on and bone-in chicken thighs (or drumsticks) Bone-in pieces help retain moisture.
  • 2 cups long-grain rice (jasmine works too) Do not use quick-cook rice.
  • 1 big onion, chopped up fine Adds sweetness to the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced Essential for flavor.
  • 1 piece bell pepper, diced Any color of bell pepper works.
  • 2-3 tablespoons copycat Nandos Peri Peri sauce Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika Enhances the smoky flavor.
  • 1 piece juice of 1 lemon Fresh lemon juice is preferred.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste Season according to preference.
  • 3 cups chicken broth For cooking the rice.
  • 1 glug olive oil For searing the chicken.
Optional Toppings
  • peas, olives, or fresh parsley For garnishing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry and coat it with Peri Peri sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Cooking
  1. In a heavy pot, add olive oil and sear the chicken skin-side down until deeply browned.
  2. Remove the chicken from the pot and add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until soft.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute.
  4. Stir in the uncooked rice for 30 seconds to coat the grains.
  5. Place the chicken back on top, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a simmer.
  6. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for approximately 20 minutes without peeking.
  7. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pot rest, covered, for another five minutes.
  8. Fluff the rice and top with parsley, peas, or olives if desired.

Notes

This dish is perfect for summer gatherings and can be prepped ahead of time. Serve family-style from the pot for a delightful experience.