Name: Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 500g/1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite size pieces; 2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet, not spicy); 1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 large garlic clove, minced); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, omit for no spice); 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt (+50% for flakes, halve for table salt); 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), deseeded and chopped into 1cm squares; 1 1/2 cups basmati rice (or long grain/medium grain rice); 1/4 tsp chili flakes/red pepper flakes (optional, omit for no spice); 2 tsp turmeric powder; 2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken stock/broth; 1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw); 1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt (+50% for flakes, halve for table salt); Perinaise (quick dry spices version) or Pink Sauce or any preferred sauce; Green onion, finely sliced

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 38 reviews

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If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that packs a punch of hearty comfort, the Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines juicy, spice-kissed chicken with fragrant turmeric-infused rice, creating a beautiful balance of zest, warmth, and freshness. Perfectly seasoned and packed with color, it captures the essence of Portuguese-inspired flavors that feels both exciting and comforting, making it an unforgettable dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five main items arranged on a white marbled surface. On the left is a round metal bowl filled with raw, unevenly shaped pink pieces of meat. To the right of it, there is a small white plate with five different spices arranged in small piles: light beige, brown, red, and two other shades of powdery spices. Below the bowl and plate are three small containers: a small clear bowl with a golden-yellow oil on the bottom left, a fresh lemon half with bright yellow color in the middle, and a small clear bowl with light brown paste-like substance on the bottom right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These straightforward ingredients come together in harmony, each one adding a special touch—from the smoky sweetness of paprika to the fresh brightness of lemon juice, and everything in between. The magic is in the mix, giving the chicken its signature zest and the rice a wonderfully fluffy texture and golden glow.

500g/1 lb chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-size pieces for easy cooking and perfect tenderness (Note 1).
2 tsp paprika: Use regular or sweet paprika to bring a subtle smokiness without overwhelming heat.
1 tsp garlic powder: Alternatively, substitute with a large clove of fresh garlic, minced for a punch of flavor.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a classic herbal touch that complements the other spices.
1/4 tsp coriander: Ground coriander gives a hint of citrusy warmth to the seasoning.
1/4 tsp cayenne: Use this if you like it spicy, or omit to keep things mild.
1 tbsp brown sugar: Adds just the right amount of caramelized sweetness to balance the spices.
1 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt: Adjust depending on salt type to bring all flavors together.
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Used to marinate the chicken and boost richness.
1/2 tbsp lemon juice: A bright substitute could be apple cider vinegar to add that fresh zing.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing and building flavor layers in the rice.
2 garlic cloves: Finely minced for aromatic depth.
1 small onion: Diced finely to soften and create a subtle sweetness.
1 red capsicum (bell pepper): Deseeded and chopped into small squares, lending vibrant color and crisp texture.
1 1/2 cups basmati rice: Or any long or medium grain rice you prefer for fluffy, separate grains (Note 2).
1/4 tsp chili flakes: Optional, for adding a touch of heat that wakes up the palate.
2 tsp turmeric powder: The golden spice brings warmth and an eye-catching color to the dish.
2 1/4 cups chicken stock/broth: Low sodium keeps the flavor balanced without overpowering saltiness.
1 cup frozen peas: Toss them in frozen to keep their vibrant green color and sweet pop.
1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt: Fine-tune seasoning to your taste.
Perinaise, Pink Sauce, or alternative sauce: For drizzling on top, adding creamy, tangy richness (Note 4).
Green onion: Finely sliced to sprinkle on at the end for a fresh, crunchy finish.

How to Make Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by mixing all the Portuguese chicken seasoning ingredients in a bowl, creating that signature spice blend that makes this recipe shine. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in the seasoning thoroughly, making sure every morsel is coated in flavor. You can cook it right away or leave it to marinate briefly to deepen the taste—though marinating overnight isn’t necessary to get fantastic flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a heavy-based pot over high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and let it sear without moving it too soon, allowing it to get a nice color on the outside. It won’t go fully golden but should develop a delicious crust. Once seared, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and diced onion, letting them cook for about a minute until fragrant and softened. Add the chopped red capsicum and continue cooking for another minute and a half until the onion turns translucent and the veggies smell irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Stock

Next, stir the basmati rice into the pot to coat each grain in the fragrant oil and vegetables. Sprinkle in the chili flakes (if using), turmeric, and salt. Pour in the chicken stock and add the seared chicken back on top along with any juices left in the bowl to capture every bit of flavor. Give a gentle stir, bring everything to a simmer, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. The goal here is a gentle, steady simmer to cook the rice perfectly.

Step 5: Cook and Rest

Allow the rice and chicken to cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to peek or stir—the liquid needs to be absorbed fully for the magic to happen. After 15 minutes, remove the pot from heat but keep the lid on, letting the dish rest for another 10 minutes. This resting period lets the rice finish steaming and become beautifully fluffy.

Step 6: Fluff and Finish

Finally, take off the lid and gently toss the rice to mix in the cooked peas, distributing the vibrant green throughout the golden rice. Spoon generous portions into bowls, then drizzle a good helping of creamy Perinaise or your favorite sauce on top. Sprinkle with finely sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy accent that elevates every bite.

How to Serve Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe

A white bowl filled with vibrant yellow-orange rice mixed with small green peas and pieces of red bell pepper, topped with chunks of brownish cooked meat and a creamy light orange sauce drizzled unevenly over the top. The dish is garnished with thinly sliced green onions scattered on the surface. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially buried in the rice. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of orange sauce nearby, adding an inviting touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really make this dish pop, fresh garnishes like green onions or chopped fresh herbs add brightness and a little crunch. A drizzle of Perinaise or even a zingy pink sauce brings a cool creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced chicken and turmeric rice.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Grilled corn or a light cucumber salad with lemon dressing can add refreshing textures and flavors to balance the rich, savory elements.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Portuguese chicken and rice in a hollowed-out roasted pepper or alongside warm flatbreads to scoop up every bit of sauce and rice. Layering the chicken and rice in a casserole dish topped with cheese before baking can give you a deliciously comforting, gratin-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making reheated portions just as delicious as freshly made.

Freezing

You can freeze cooled portions in suitable containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some headspace in your containers as rice expands slightly when frozen. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat without drying out the rice, sprinkle a little water over it and cover the container or plate with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power, stirring halfway, or reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine but may cook faster and can be less juicy than thighs. Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying out the chicken.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe includes cayenne and chili flakes, but you can omit them if you prefer mild flavors. The resulting dish will still be flavorful and aromatic without the heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While the core dish centers around chicken and stock, you can substitute vegetable broth and use hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.

What rice is best for this recipe?

Basmati rice is ideal because it remains fluffy and separate, but long grain or medium grain rice also works well if that’s what you have on hand.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate for as little as 15 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor. However, even with minimal resting time, the seasoning packs a wonderful taste punch.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend the Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe enough if you want a dish that’s accessible, bursting with flavor, and satisfying on multiple levels. It’s a winner for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special. Dive in and let this recipe brighten your table and your taste buds!

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