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Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Savory Portuguese Chicken and Rice for Busy Weeknights

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Experience the rich flavors of Portuguese Chicken and Rice, a delightful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons Paprika Sweet or regular variety
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Omit for milder flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar Can be reduced or omitted
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Apple cider vinegar is a suitable alternative
For the Rice and Veggies
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic for sautéing
  • 1 medium Onion (Diced)
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Diced) Other colored bell peppers can be substituted
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice Swap with long or medium grain rice
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
  • 2 cups Low Sodium Chicken Stock or Broth Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian versions
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Can use other frozen vegetables if preferred
Optional Toppings
  • to taste Perinaise A spicy sauce for extra flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onion (Finely Sliced) For garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, kosher salt, olive oil, and lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a large pot over high heat, adding a splash of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the pot, searing for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add more olive oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and diced onion, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced bell pepper and cook until softened, about 1½ minutes.
  4. Stir in the basmati rice, mixing it with the sautéed vegetables. Add turmeric powder, chicken stock, frozen peas, and kosher salt. Combine thoroughly, coating the rice with spices.
  5. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture, adding any collected juices. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, reduce to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes.
  6. After 15 minutes, remove from heat but keep covered. Let the dish rest for an additional 10 minutes to finish cooking.
  7. Use a fork to fluff the rice and integrate the chicken. Serve warm, optionally drizzling with perinaise and garnishing with sliced green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 30gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This flavorful Portuguese Chicken and Rice will quickly become a favorite recipe, making weeknight dinners stress-free and enjoyable.

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