Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice – One Pot Recipe

This Nando’s-inspired Portuguese Chicken and Rice is packed with bold flavor, tender chicken, fluffy golden rice, and colorful vegetables all cooked together in one pot. The smoky spices, garlic, turmeric, and gentle heat create a comforting and satisfying meal that tastes even better with a drizzle of creamy peri-naise on top. It’s an easy dinner that feels special while keeping cleanup simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup quick and easy
• The chicken stays juicy and flavorful
• The rice absorbs all the delicious spices and broth
• Perfect for meal prep because leftovers reheat beautifully
• Easily customizable with extra vegetables or different spice levels
• Family-friendly and filling enough for a complete meal
• The homemade peri-style seasoning tastes restaurant-quality

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken seasoning:

• 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice

For the rice:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into small squares
• 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For garnish:

• Peri-naise or pink sauce
• Finely sliced green onions

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice. Add the chicken pieces and toss until fully coated. Let the chicken sit while preparing the remaining ingredients.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for several minutes until lightly colored on the outside. The chicken does not need to cook completely at this stage. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and set aside.

In the same pot, add the garlic and onion. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Stir in the basmati rice and mix well so the grains are coated with the flavorful oil and spices.

Add the red pepper flakes, turmeric powder, chicken broth, frozen peas, and salt. Return the chicken and any juices back to the pot.

Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 15 minutes without stirring or lifting the lid.

After 15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy.

Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork, mixing the chicken throughout the pot.

Serve warm with a drizzle of peri-naise or pink sauce and a sprinkle of sliced green onions.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 5 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add diced carrots or zucchini for extra vegetables
• Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option
• Stir in baby spinach at the end for added freshness
• Increase cayenne and chili flakes for a spicier version
• Replace peas with corn or chopped green beans
• Add a spoonful of yogurt to the sauce for extra creaminess
• Use jasmine rice if preferred, though the texture will be slightly stickier

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and sprinkle a little water over the top before covering. Heat until warmed through. The added moisture helps keep the rice fluffy.

You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water.

Freezing is not recommended because the rice texture may become dry after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, though thighs stay juicier during cooking.

Is this recipe very spicy?

No, it has mild heat. You can easily reduce or increase the spice level.

What type of rice works best?

Basmati rice gives the fluffiest texture, but long-grain rice also works well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well and is excellent for meal prep.

Why should I let the rice rest after cooking?

Resting allows the rice to finish steaming and helps create a fluffy texture.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, carrots, kale, or corn are all great additions.

What sauce goes best with this dish?

Peri-naise, spicy mayo, or a simple yogurt sauce pair wonderfully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply use a dairy-free sauce or skip the creamy topping.

How do I prevent the rice from burning?

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid lifting the lid while cooking.

Can I use homemade broth?

Yes, homemade chicken broth adds even more flavor to the rice.

Conclusion

This Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is the perfect balance of convenience and flavor. The seasoned chicken, vibrant rice, and warming spices create a comforting one-pot meal that feels hearty and satisfying without requiring complicated steps. Whether you serve it for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep it for the week ahead, this flavorful rice dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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