Name: Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 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; 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 cups frozen corn; ½ cup peri-peri sauce; ¾ cup heavy cream; Lemon juice to taste; Salt to taste

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! The combination of tender grilled chicken and the savory rice creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will delight your family and friends.

This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more festive gatherings. With the right balance of kick from the peri-peri sauce and creaminess from the heavy cream, this chicken recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Add in the lovely colorful bell peppers and corn for a vibrant presentation that makes it as beautiful as it is delicious. As you enjoy your Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice, you’ll find that each bite is packed with flavor that leaves you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice

Rich and Flavorful: The creamy peri-peri sauce elevates the dish, providing a perfect balance of heat and richness.
Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat.
Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite veggies or substitute proteins to make this dish your own.
Family Friendly: The mild heat level makes it suitable for both adults and kids.
One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup as many of the ingredients are cooked together.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Start by organizing your ingredients on your countertop, ensuring you have everything within reach. You will need a large bowl for marinating the chicken, a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven for cooking the rice, and a grill pan (or outdoor grill) for cooking the chicken. Don’t forget a small saucepan for making the creamy peri-peri sauce. Additionally, have a cutting board and sharp knife ready for chopping the vegetables. Make sure to keep utensils such as spatulas and ladles handy as well, to facilitate a seamless cooking experience.

Ingredients

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
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 cups frozen corn
½ cup peri-peri sauce
¾ cup heavy cream
Lemon juice to taste
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To start, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade will not only flavor the chicken but will also tenderize it, making every bite juicy and succulent. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, overnight is recommended.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, turn your attention to the rice. In a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions and bell peppers until they start to soften and become fragrant. Next, add the crushed garlic and turmeric, stirring for about 30 seconds to enhance the aroma. Then, stir in the jasmine rice and pour in the chicken broth or water, seasoning with salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is partially cooked.

Step 3: Add Corn to the Rice

Once the rice has absorbed the majority of the liquid, conveniently stir in the frozen corn. This step not only adds sweetness but also a wonderful pop of color to your dish. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let the rice steam for an additional 10 minutes. After cooking, turn off the heat and allow the rice to sit covered while you prepare the chicken, letting it finish fluffing up.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

It’s time to cook the marinated chicken. Heat a grill pan over high heat, or preheat your outdoor grill. Once hot, place the chicken thighs on the grill and allow them to cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden-brown crust on the outside while ensuring the chicken is cooked through. The key is to avoid overcooking, which could dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C).

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. Over medium heat, let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and lemon juice to taste, ensuring the sauce complements the chicken perfectly.

Step 6: Serve

Now for the grand reveal! On a plate, spoon in a generous amount of the savory rice, top it with your succulent grilled chicken, and drizzle a hearty amount of the creamy peri-peri sauce over the entire dish. For an extra flourish, scatter some fresh herbs like parsley on top to brighten your plate. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors, textures, and aroma with your loved ones!

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken thighs for lean cuts of chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add peas, zucchini, or spinach to the rice mixture for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with different spice blends to customize the heat level; you can add cayenne for more spiciness or use smoked garlic for a unique flavor twist.

Cooking Notes

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
To make the dish in advance, marinate the chicken and prepare the rice a day prior, and simply grill the chicken and heat the rice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
Pair with warm naan or pita bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips

For a smokier flavor, consider grilling the chicken over charcoal instead of using a pan.
Fresh herbs add brightness; consider using cilantro or basil to enhance the flavor profile.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including marinate)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 900mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but keep in mind they might dry out more easily. Adjust cooking times accordingly for optimal juiciness.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant, or use chickpeas for protein.

What can I serve with Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken?

This meal pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables.

Can I make the peri-peri sauce at home?

Definitely! A homemade version can be made with roasted red peppers, garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of spices blended together for customization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is a delectable dish that’s both hearty and inviting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special yet easy to prepare. The balance of creamy richness alongside the bold peri-peri spice ensures a flavorful experience for anyone at your table. We hope you enjoy making this recipe and encourage you to share your personal variations and experiences in the comments below. Whether you choose to stick to the classic or unleash your creativity, this dish is sure to impress!