Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

This Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a bold, flavorful dish inspired by the popular peri-peri chain we all crave. Juicy, spicy chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty peri-peri blend and paired with fragrant, tomato-infused Portuguese rice that soaks up all the savory goodness. It’s a one-plate meal I love making when I want something fiery, filling, and deeply satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The spicy, tangy marinade does all the work, giving the chicken an irresistible charred crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. And the rice? It’s a showstopper on its own—savory, slightly smoky, and packed with comforting spice. It’s a dinner I can’t stop going back to for second helpings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless)
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Smoked paprika
• Red chili or peri-peri sauce
• Salt and pepper
• Dried oregano

For the Rice:

• Long grain or basmati rice
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Red bell pepper, chopped
• Tomato paste
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. I start by mixing the marinade: olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, chili sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. I coat the chicken in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (but overnight in the fridge makes it even better).
3. While the chicken marinates, I heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté onions, garlic, and red pepper until soft.
4. I stir in the tomato paste and smoked paprika, letting it cook down for a minute to deepen the flavor.
5. I add the rice, stir to coat it in the mixture, then pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
6. I bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy.
7. Meanwhile, I cook the chicken—either grilled, pan-seared, or roasted in the oven—until the outside is crisp and the inside is juicy and cooked through.
8. I serve the chicken over the rice, finishing it off with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 45 minutes total, including 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking, and marinating time as preferred. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal.

Variations

• Sometimes I swap the chicken thighs for drumsticks or breasts depending on what I have.
• I’ve added green peas or chopped spinach to the rice for extra vegetables.
• For more heat, I add a dash of cayenne pepper or use hot peri-peri sauce in the marinade.
• When I want a smoky grilled flavor, I cook the chicken on a barbecue instead of the oven.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the rice and chicken in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. It also reheats well in the microwave—just cover to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought peri-peri sauce?

Yes, I often use bottled Nando’s peri-peri sauce when I’m in a rush. It still gives great flavor and saves time on prep.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this dish?

I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, but boneless thighs or breasts work just fine too.

Can I make the rice in advance?

Absolutely. I make the rice ahead and reheat it with a little extra broth. It’s also great for meal prep and lunch leftovers.

What sides go well with this dish?

I usually serve it with a simple salad, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob to keep the meal fresh and balanced.

Can I bake the chicken and rice together?

Yes, for a one-pan version, I sear the marinated chicken, then place it on top of the rice before baking everything together in the oven. It turns out perfectly tender and infused with flavor.

Conclusion

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice brings bold, comforting flavors right into my kitchen. From the spicy, charred chicken to the fluffy, seasoned rice, it’s a dish I love turning to when I want something hearty and exciting. It’s easy to make, even easier to love, and always a hit at the dinner table.

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