Nando’s Inspired Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice – One Pot Delightful Feast

Why Make This Recipe

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a delightful, one-pot meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Afro-Portuguese cuisine right to your dinner table. This recipe captures the essence of Nando’s famous chicken with a blend of spices that is both aromatic and delicious. Cooking it all in one pot not only makes cleanup a breeze but also allows the rice to absorb the rich flavors of the chicken, creating a hearty meal your family will love.

How to Make Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Creating this delectable dish is easy and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cook the perfect Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice.

Ingredients

• 1 kg Chicken Thighs (Skinless and boneless)
• 2 tbsp Paprika (Sweet or regular)
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder (Or freshly minced garlic)
• 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tbsp Coriander
• 0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional)
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Cooking Salt (Kosher salt preferred)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 cloves Garlic Cloves (Minced)
• 1 medium Onion (Sautéed until golden)
• 1 medium Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) (Deseeded and diced)
• 1.5 cups Basmati Rice (Or long/medium grain rice)
• 1 tsp Chili Flakes (Optional)
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 3 cups Chicken Stock/Broth (Low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup Frozen Peas (Optional)
• To taste Perinaise (Or alternative hot sauce)
• 2 stalks Green Onion (Chopped for garnish)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and cooking salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sautéed onion and cook until golden. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red capsicum, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

3. Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken thighs to the pot. Brown them evenly on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the Rice: Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring it mixes well with the chicken and spices. This step is vital as it helps the rice soak up all the delicious flavors.

5. Pour in the Chicken Stock: Add turmeric powder, chili flakes (if using), and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid.

6. Cook the Dish: Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If you are adding frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

7. Finish and Garnish: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions and a drizzle of Perinaise or your favorite hot sauce.

8. Serve: Dish out generous portions and enjoy your homemade Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice!

Pro Tips for Success Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

1. Marination Time: Letting the chicken marinate overnight can significantly enhance the flavor.

2. Rice Selection: For the best texture, use basmati or long-grain rice, which fares well in one-pot dishes.

3. Temperature Control: Keep the heat low while simmering to prevent burning or sticking.

4. Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

5. Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili flakes based on your heat preference.

Flavor Variations Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a flavorful veggie option.

2. Different Proteins: Feel free to use chicken breast, shrimp, or even tofu as a protein alternative.

3. Spice It Up: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper for an extra kick.

4. Add More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or spinach to elevate the nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the chicken and rice. Additionally, serving it with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls can make it even more filling.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in portioned containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|————–|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Can I use different types of curry powder instead of the spices listed?

You can certainly experiment with different curry blends! Just remember that each blend has its unique flavor profile, so you might end up with a slightly different taste. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your spice tolerance.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, reheats nicely, and is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Can I substitute the rice with something else?

Absolutely! Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even couscous can be used as a substitute for rice. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the grain you choose.

What if I don’t have chicken stock?

If you don’t have chicken stock, water can be used as a substitute. For added flavor, consider mixing in a splash of soy sauce or a bouillon cube.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. The cayenne pepper and chili flakes are optional; you can omit them for a milder dish or increase the amount for a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s a feast full of warmth, flavor, and comfort. Cooking in one pot simplifies the process, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy every bite of this delightful feast, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delightful, one-pot meal capturing the vibrant flavors of Afro-Portuguese cuisine with aromatic spices.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 kg Chicken Thighs (Skinless and boneless)
• 2 tbsp Paprika (Sweet or regular)
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder (Or freshly minced garlic)
• 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tbsp Coriander
• 0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional)
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Cooking Salt (Kosher salt preferred)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 cloves Garlic Cloves (Minced)
• 1 medium Onion (Sautéed until golden)
• 1 medium Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) (Deseeded and diced)
• 1.5 cups Basmati Rice (Or long/medium grain rice)
• 1 tsp Chili Flakes (Optional)
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 3 cups Chicken Stock/Broth (Low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup Frozen Peas (Optional)
• To taste Perinaise (Or alternative hot sauce)
• 2 stalks Green Onion (Chopped for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and cooking salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sautéed onion and cook until golden. Stir in the minced garlic and diced red capsicum, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the pot. Brown them evenly on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring it mixes well with the chicken and spices.
5. Add turmeric powder, chili flakes (if using), and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid.
6. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If adding frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions and a drizzle of Perinaise or your favorite hot sauce.
8. Dish out generous portions and enjoy your homemade Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice!

Notes

Marinating overnight enhances flavor. Use basmati or long-grain rice for best texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One Pot
• Cuisine: Portuguese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg