Name: Nando s Portuguese Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 500g (1 lb) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces; Portuguese Chicken Seasoning:; 2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet); 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 for heat); 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar); Nando’s Copycat Spicy Rice:; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), deseeded and chopped; 1 1/2 cups basmati rice (or long/medium grain rice); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tsp turmeric powder; 2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken stock/broth; 1 cup frozen peas (do not thaw); 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; Garnishes:; Perinaise or pink sauce (optional); Green onion, finely sliced

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This Nando s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a flavor-packed one-pot dish inspired by the famous Peri-Peri flavors of the popular restaurant chain. With tender spiced chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic, golden-hued rice all cooked in one pot, it’s an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the smoky, spicy, and zesty flavors of Portuguese-style chicken with a comforting bed of perfectly seasoned rice. It’s a complete meal made in one pot, meaning fewer dishes and more flavor. Whether you’re a Nando’s fan or just looking for a new chicken and rice dinner, this recipe delivers bold taste and satisfying texture in every bite.

Nando s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken

boneless, skinless chicken thighs
paprika
garlic powder (or fresh garlic)
dried oregano
coriander
cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
brown sugar
salt
olive oil
lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

For the Spicy Rice

olive oil
garlic
onion
red bell pepper (capsicum)
basmati rice (or long/medium grain rice)
red pepper flakes (optional)
turmeric powder
chicken stock or broth (low sodium)
frozen peas
salt

Garnishes (Optional but recommended)

Perinaise or pink sauce
finely sliced green onions

Directions

Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together all Portuguese chicken seasoning ingredients. Toss in the chicken pieces and coat well. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients, or marinate overnight if desired.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-based pot over high heat. Sear the chicken until lightly browned and sealed on the outside. Remove chicken and set aside, leaving oil in the pot.
Sauté Veggies: Add minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, then add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 1–2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add Rice & Liquids: Stir in the rice, coating it in the seasoned oil. Add turmeric, chili flakes (if using), chicken stock, frozen peas, and salt. Spread the seared chicken over the top, including any juices from the bowl.
Cook: Bring the pot to a simmer. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer gently for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Rest: After 15 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking through steam.
Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, serve hot with a drizzle of Perinaise or pink sauce, and sprinkle with sliced green onions.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Make it Milder: Omit cayenne and chili flakes for a kid-friendly version.
Use Chicken Breast: You can substitute thighs with diced chicken breast, but take care not to overcook it.
Add Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, corn, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
Rice Alternatives: Use long grain or medium grain rice if basmati is not available.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the rice but can be frozen if needed—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, simply leave out the cayenne pepper and chili flakes. You’ll still get lots of flavor from the other spices.

What kind of rice works best?

Basmati rice is ideal for its aroma and texture, but long or medium grain rice also works well. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during simmering. If using breast, don’t overcook it during the searing step.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock and check the label on your peri-peri seasoning.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, spinach, corn, or green beans are great additions to this dish.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking or burning?

Use a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid and make sure the heat is low while simmering. Don’t stir while cooking.

What is Perinaise?

Perinaise is a creamy, spicy mayonnaise-based sauce inspired by peri-peri flavors. It’s the perfect finishing touch for this dish.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. You may need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with this?

This is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or steamed veggies.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the whole dish ahead of time and reheat before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Conclusion

This Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a bold, one-pot meal that brings together juicy, spice-rubbed chicken and fragrant, golden rice in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this easy, satisfying dish delivers restaurant-style flavor right from your kitchen—no takeout required.