There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is a dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of South African and Portuguese cuisine, where Peri-Peri sauce reigns supreme. This fiery, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce has a way of bringing people together around the dinner table, and this recipe is no exception.
Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing friends with a burst of flavor, this dish is a keeper. The creamy Peri-Peri sauce balances just the right amount of heat with rich, luscious flavors, while the rice soaks up every last bit of the goodness. It’s bold, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.
Let’s dive into the details and get you ready to bring this incredible dish to life in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: The bold spiciness of Peri-Peri sauce paired with a creamy base creates a flavor-packed dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend dinner, this recipe fits the bill.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or less Peri-Peri sauce. It’s as fiery or as mild as you want it to be.
- Comforting and Filling: With tender chicken and rice soaking up the creamy sauce, this dish is hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table.
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash! This recipe comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup chicken stock
For the Creamy Peri-Peri Sauce:
- ½ cup Peri-Peri sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken to the hot pan and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. This locks in the flavor and creates a delicious crust. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Build the Sauce:
Pour the chicken stock into the pan and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This deglazes the pan and infuses the sauce with extra flavor. Stir in the Peri-Peri sauce, heavy cream, and Greek yogurt. Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
4. Simmer the Chicken:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the creamy Peri-Peri sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and let the chicken simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked through and tender.
5. Cook the Rice:
While the chicken simmers, prepare the rice. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice and toast it for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, spoon it over the rice, making sure to drizzle plenty of the creamy sauce on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- Control the Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, use less Peri-Peri sauce, or opt for a mild variety. On the flip side, if you love spice, feel free to add an extra spoonful.
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Tenderness: While chicken breasts work fine, thighs stay juicier and more tender during cooking.
- Rice Alternatives: For a healthier twist, you can serve this dish with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice.
- Make it Ahead: The creamy Peri-Peri chicken can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: South African/Portuguese-inspired
- Diet: Can be made gluten-free
Notes:
- To ensure the chicken stays tender, avoid overcooking it in the sauce. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas.
Nutritional Information:
Per Serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought Peri-Peri sauce?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought Peri-Peri sauce works perfectly for this recipe. If you want to make your own, feel free to experiment with fresh chilies, garlic, lemon juice, and spices.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes! The creamy Peri-Peri chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A: Reheat the chicken and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken stock to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much in the fridge.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the creamy Peri-Peri chicken (without the rice) for up to 2 months.
Related Recipes:
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Conclusion:
There’s something truly comforting about a meal that’s both simple and packed with bold flavors, and this Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice delivers on all fronts. It’s a celebration of spice, creaminess, and heartwarming comfort all in one dish. Whether you’re new to Peri-Peri sauce or a longtime fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Go ahead, grab your skillet, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this delightful meal. Once you taste that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s so hard to resist going back for seconds. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice: A Comforting Weeknight Dinner
Description
There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce served over fluffy rice. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is a dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of South African and Portuguese cuisine, where Peri-Peri sauce reigns supreme. This fiery, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce has a way of bringing people together around the dinner table, and this recipe is no exception.
Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing friends with a burst of flavor, this dish is a keeper. The creamy Peri-Peri sauce balances just the right amount of heat with rich, luscious flavors, while the rice soaks up every last bit of the goodness. It’s bold, comforting, and absolutely irresistible.
Let’s dive into the details and get you ready to bring this incredible dish to life in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup chicken stock
For the Creamy Peri-Peri Sauce:
- ½ cup Peri-Peri sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken to the hot pan and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. This locks in the flavor and creates a delicious crust. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
3. Build the Sauce:
Pour the chicken stock into the pan and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This deglazes the pan and infuses the sauce with extra flavor. Stir in the Peri-Peri sauce, heavy cream, and Greek yogurt. Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
4. Simmer the Chicken:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the creamy Peri-Peri sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and let the chicken simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked through and tender.
5. Cook the Rice:
While the chicken simmers, prepare the rice. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice and toast it for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, spoon it over the rice, making sure to drizzle plenty of the creamy sauce on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- To ensure the chicken stays tender, avoid overcooking it in the sauce. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- For a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas.