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Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

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Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a fiery and flavorful dish inspired by the popular restaurant classic. Juicy, marinated chicken is grilled or roasted and served over aromatic rice cooked with peppers, onions, and savory spices for a bold and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in or boneless)
  • 3 tbsp peri-peri sauce or paste (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup long grain or basmati rice
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix peri-peri sauce, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  2. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, then stir in garlic and bell peppers and cook for 2 more minutes.
  4. Add rice, paprika, bay leaf, and salt. Stir to coat the rice in the spices and vegetables. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Fluff the rice with a fork and discard the bay leaf. Plate the rice and top with grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot peri-peri sauce.Use boneless chicken for quicker cooking.Add vegetables like peas, corn, or tomatoes to the rice for variety.Bake chicken and rice together in one dish for convenience.Serve with a cooling yogurt dip to offset the heat for kids.

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