Description
Aromatic and flavorful, this Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice is a delightful one-pot meal that brings together tender chicken thighs and fluffy basmati rice. Infused with zesty lemon and warm paprika, it offers a deliciously unique flavor profile that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables. Perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe simplifies cooking and cleanup, making it a go-to for any occasion. Enjoy a culinary adventure that’s both satisfying and effortless!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown but not cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.
- Add diced tomatoes along with their juices to the same pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Scrape any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot alongside basmati rice.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.
- Stir everything together gently until well combined.
Notes
Storage: Allow the Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Heat it in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe container, covering it to retain moisture, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Serving: Serve the Nando’s Portuguese Chicken & Rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for added flavor and color. Pair with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. This dish is perfect on its own or accompanied by a side salad or crusty bread.
Chef’s Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the spices, lemon juice, and zest for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will enhance the taste and make the chicken more tender. Additionally, feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: One-Pot
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 0