Go Back
Delicious Nando's Portuguese Chicken served with rice in a one pot dish

Nando's Portuguese Chicken and Rice

A comforting one-pot dish that brings vibrant Portuguese flavors to your table, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, Portuguese
Servings 6 servings
Calories 560 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 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 for heat)
  • 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)

For the Base

  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
  • 1 medium Onion (Sautéed until golden)
  • 1 medium Red Capsicum (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)
  • 2 stalks Green Onion (Chopped for garnish)

For Serving

  • to taste Perinaise (Or alternative hot sauce)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by marinating the chicken thighs in paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and salt. Add olive oil and lemon juice, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Let it sit for 30 minutes if possible to enhance the flavors.
  • In a large pot, heat a little extra olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and onion until the onion turns golden.
  • Add the diced red capsicum and cook for a few more minutes until tender.
  • Stir in the marinated chicken and sauté until browned on all sides.

Cooking

  • Add the rice, chili flakes (if using), turmeric powder, and chicken stock. Give it a good stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
  • If you’re adding frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a drizzle of Perinaise or your favorite hot sauce.

Notes

Best served with a side salad or crusty bread. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers and reheated easily.
Keyword Chicken and Rice, Easy Dinner, Nando's Chicken, One Pot Meal, Quick Recipes