Savor Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice: A Flavorful Delight

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you to a sun-drenched terrace in Portugal? Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice is one of those magical meals that captivates the senses. The succulent chicken, marinated in a blend of spices, boasts a perfect char, complemented by fluffy rice infused with aromatic herbs. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that lingers on your palate.

This dish brings together mouthwatering flavors that remind me of summer gatherings with friends and family. I remember the first time I prepared this recipe; the aroma wafted through my kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. Whether it’s a weekend barbecue or a cozy family dinner, Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice fits seamlessly into any occasion. Get ready for an explosion of flavor as we dive into this delightful dish!

Key Ingredients For Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for absorbing flavors and remain juicy during cooking.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an essential aromatic depth to the marinade.
• Piri-Piri Sauce: This spicy sauce offers the signature heat and zest that defines Nando’s chicken.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for marinating the chicken and drizzling over rice.
• Long-Grain Rice: Fluffy long-grain rice serves as the perfect base that soaks up all the flavors.

For the Marinade:

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade and balances out rich flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step : Marinate The Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine garlic cloves, Piri-Piri sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice. Add the boneless chicken thighs to the mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

Third Step : Prepare The Rice

While the chicken marinates, rinse long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice with water following package instructions. Bring to a boil before reducing heat and covering.

Fourth Step : Bake The Chicken

Once marinated, place the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked and juices run clear.

Fifth Step : Fluff The Rice

When the chicken nears completion, fluff your cooked rice with a fork and season it lightly with salt or additional Piri-Piri sauce if desired.

Serving Suggestion:

Transfer servings of fluffy rice onto plates alongside succulent chicken thighs. Drizzle with extra Piri-Piri sauce for an added kick.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Marinate Longer: For an even deeper flavor profile, consider marinating your chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and homemade Piri-Piri sauce can elevate your dish significantly compared to store-bought options.
• Serve With Sides: Consider adding grilled vegetables or a fresh salad alongside your chicken and rice for a balanced meal.

Cooking Instructions

To create the perfect Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice, follow these simple steps for a delicious and flavorful meal.

Start by marinating your chicken in a blend of spices and sauces that embody the essence of Nando’s. Use a combination of peri-peri sauce, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for an authentic taste. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, ideally overnight, to absorb all the flavors.

Next, preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the marinated chicken on a baking tray and roast it for about 40-45 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. To ensure it’s juicy, you can baste it with its own juices halfway through cooking.

While the chicken roasts, prepare the rice. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, add 2 cups of chicken broth or water, bring it to a boil, then stir in the rice. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.

Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. Drizzle extra peri-peri sauce on top for an added kick if desired.

Presentation Ideas

This Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Freshly chopped coriander or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• A side of grilled vegetables complements the dish perfectly with added nutrients.
• Garlic bread serves as an excellent side to soak up any delicious sauce left on your plate.

FAQs

What is Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice?

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice refers to a popular dish inspired by Portuguese flavors. It typically features marinated chicken that’s grilled or roasted to perfection and served alongside flavorful rice. The dish often includes peri-peri sauce as a key ingredient, offering a spicy kick that enhances its taste profile. This meal is loved for its bold flavors and is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

How can I adjust the spice level in Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice?

You can easily adjust the spice level in your Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice by modifying the amount of peri-peri sauce used during preparation. For those who prefer milder flavors, opt for less spicy versions of peri-peri sauce or use additional lemon juice to balance out the heat. Alternatively, consider marinating your chicken with yogurt beforehand as this will neutralize some spiciness while keeping it tender.

Can I make Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice in advance! Marinate your chicken a day prior and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. The rice can also be made ahead; simply reheat it before serving. For best results, store each component separately to maintain texture and flavor until mealtime.

What are some side dishes that go well with Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice?

Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with coleslaw for crunchiness or grilled corn on the cob for sweetness. A fresh garden salad dressed lightly complements this hearty meal without overwhelming it. You may also enjoy adding some crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for those craving comfort food alongside their main dish.

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Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Portuguese

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Portugal with Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice, a dish that combines marinated boneless chicken thighs and aromatic, fluffy rice. Infused with zesty Piri-Piri sauce and fresh garlic, this meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a lively summer gathering or a cozy family dinner. Follow this simple recipe to create a mouthwatering feast that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup Piri-Piri sauce
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, mix garlic, Piri-Piri sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear. In a saucepan, combine rinsed rice and water/chicken broth, bring to boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
4. Place marinated chicken in the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until juices run clear.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and season as desired before serving alongside the chicken.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: - For deeper flavor, marinate chicken overnight. - Fresh herbs like coriander or parsley can enhance presentation. - Serve with grilled vegetables or a side salad for balance.