Welcome to a mouth-watering journey filled with flavors and spice! If you’re searching for a hearty yet creamy meal, look no further than this delicious Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice. Perfectly seasoned chicken paired with rich peri-peri sauce makes for a dish that’s not only easy to make but also irresistible. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Introduction
Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken is a delightful fusion of Portuguese and South African cuisine, known for its bold and vibrant flavors. Peri-peri sauce, originating from Portuguese settlers in Africa, is a spicy condiment made from African bird’s eye chili, adding a punch to any meal. The creamy version of this dish offers a rich twist, balancing the spice with velvety smoothness. This comforting meal is ideal for dinner, combining the tenderness of chicken with the savory goodness of rice, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional peri-peri dishes or love creamy chicken recipes, this dish is a must-try!
Ingredients for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Chicken
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Savory Rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups frozen corn
Creamy Peri-Peri Sauce
- ½ cup peri-peri sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- Lemon juice to taste
- Salt to taste
Optional Substitutions
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream in the sauce.
- If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream for a subtle tropical flavor.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier, low-carb option.
How to Make Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice – Step by Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and bell peppers in a splash of olive oil over medium heat until softened. Add the crushed garlic and turmeric, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the jasmine rice and pour in the chicken broth or water. Season with salt and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Add Corn to the Rice
Once the rice has absorbed the majority of the liquid, stir in the frozen corn. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let the rice steam for an additional 10 minutes. After cooking, turn off the heat and let the rice sit while you prepare the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan over high heat (or preheat an outdoor grill). Grill the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Peri-Peri Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the peri-peri sauce, heavy cream, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the rice onto a plate, top with grilled chicken, and generously drizzle the creamy peri-peri sauce over the dish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
Helpful Tips for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra peri-peri sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice in both the marinade and the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor.
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken
- Use a cast iron grill pan for the chicken to achieve a perfect sear and caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- If grilling outdoors, aim for a medium-high heat to avoid over-charring the chicken.
- For an extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the rice as well.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a refreshing beverage, consider serving with a chilled glass of lemonade or an ice-cold beer, as the acidity will complement the creaminess of the sauce. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy peri-peri sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 564 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Storage and Leftovers for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken
To store leftovers, place the chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through, or gently reheat on the stove. For best results, reheat the sauce separately and drizzle over the dish after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken
- Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but be mindful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster than thighs.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the rice a day ahead. Reheat before serving.
- Is peri-peri sauce very spicy? It can be, but you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of peri-peri sauce you use or choosing a mild version.
- What can I use if I don’t have peri-peri sauce? You can substitute it with a mixture of hot sauce and paprika for a similar spicy and smoky flavor.
Related Recipes for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Lovers
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix
– A savory and delicious appetizer perfect for any occasion.
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread – A hearty meal that brings bold flavors to your table.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve seen how easy and delicious this Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is, why not give it a try for dinner tonight? This recipe is perfect for both weeknights and special occasions, offering rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let us know how your dish turned out or share any fun variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice – Flavorful Dinner Recipe
Description
Welcome to a mouth-watering journey filled with flavors and spice! If you’re searching for a hearty yet creamy meal, look no further than this delicious Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice. Perfectly seasoned chicken paired with rich peri-peri sauce makes for a dish that’s not only easy to make but also irresistible. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Savory Rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 4 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups frozen corn
For the Creamy Peri-Peri Sauce
- ½ cup peri-peri sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- Lemon juice to taste
- Salt to taste
Optional Substitutions
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream in the sauce.
- If you’re avoiding dairy, substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream for a subtle tropical flavor.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier, low-carb option.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and bell peppers in a splash of olive oil over medium heat until softened. Add the crushed garlic and turmeric, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the jasmine rice and pour in the chicken broth or water. Season with salt and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Add Corn to the Rice
Once the rice has absorbed the majority of the liquid, stir in the frozen corn. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let the rice steam for an additional 10 minutes. After cooking, turn off the heat and let the rice sit while you prepare the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan over high heat (or preheat an outdoor grill). Grill the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Peri-Peri Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the peri-peri sauce, heavy cream, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the rice onto a plate, top with grilled chicken, and generously drizzle the creamy peri-peri sauce over the dish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra peri-peri sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice in both the marinade and the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor.
