Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken & Rice Recipe – Easy One-Pot Meal

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken & Rice Recipe – Easy One-Pot Meal

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a flavorful, satisfying meal that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes. This Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken & Rice is exactly that – a vibrant, spicy, and incredibly easy one-pot wonder. I first made this when I was craving that Nando’s flavour but didn’t want to head out. It’s become a regular in my kitchen ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total winner for a few reasons. It’s quick – ready in about 40 minutes. It’s a complete meal, packing protein, carbs, and veggies all in one pot. And most importantly, it’s bursting with that iconic Nando’s Peri Peri flavour. Seriously, it’s like a little taste of sunshine in every bite!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciousness:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. 15ml)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon peri-peri spice
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup basmati rice (approx. 195g)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (approx. 45ml)
• 1 tablespoon butter (approx. 14g)
• 1 small onion
• 1 red pepper
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.25 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon spice for rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (approx. 475ml)
• 1 cup peas (approx. 150g)
• 6 baby corn
• 0.5 cup Nando’s peri peri sauce (approx. 120ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few things make this recipe sing:

• Basmati Rice: This is my go-to for flavour and texture. It’s light, fluffy, and absorbs all those wonderful spices beautifully. You can use other long-grain rice if you prefer, but basmati really elevates the dish.
• Peri-Peri Spice Blend: This is where the magic happens! Peri-Peri is a chilli pepper originally from Portugal, but hugely popular in South Africa and now worldwide thanks to Nando’s. It has a fruity heat that’s totally addictive. You can find pre-made blends in most supermarkets or online.
• Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce: This is the key to getting that authentic Nando’s flavour. It comes in different heat levels, so choose one that suits your spice preference. I usually go for medium! It’s a vinegary, spicy, and utterly delicious sauce.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, we’ll prep the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavour.
2. Now, let’s make the marinade. Mix the 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, paprika, peri-peri spice, chilli powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken thoroughly with this mixture.
3. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2.5-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Don’t overcrowd the pot – work in batches if needed. Once seared, set the chicken aside, covered with foil to keep it warm.
4. In the same pot, add the diced onion and red pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, chilli powder, paprika, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This blooms the spices and really deepens the flavour.
6. Add the rinsed basmati rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Resist the urge to peek!
7. After 20 minutes, stir in the peas, baby corn, and butter. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Finally, return the chicken to the pot and drizzle with the Nando’s Peri-Peri sauce. Stir gently to combine and heat through.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the searing step! It adds so much flavour and texture to the chicken.
• Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
• Keep the pot covered while simmering to trap the steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Variations

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to heat, use a milder Peri-Peri sauce or reduce the amount of chilli powder. My friend, Sarah, actually adds a dollop of yogurt at the end to cool things down!
• Chicken Thigh Variation: Chicken thighs are even more forgiving and flavorful. Use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other veggies like chopped carrots, mushrooms, or spinach.
• One-Pot vs. Separate Cooking: While this is designed as a one-pot meal, you can bake the chicken separately for a slightly healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

This Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken & Rice is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to complete the meal:

• A side of cooling raita (yogurt dip).
• A simple green salad.
• Warm naan bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of rice? You can, but the cooking time may vary. Long-grain rice is best, but adjust the liquid accordingly.
• How can I adjust the heat level of this dish? Use a milder Peri-Peri sauce, reduce the chilli powder, or add a dollop of yogurt.
• Can this be made ahead of time? You can prep the marinade and chop the vegetables ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the rice and chicken just before serving.
• What is the best way to store leftovers? In an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Is it possible to make this in a slow cooker? While not traditional, you could adapt this for a slow cooker. Sear the chicken first, then add all ingredients (except the peas and sauce) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the peas and sauce during the last 30 minutes.

Enjoy this flavourful and easy Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken & Rice! Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!