Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice – One Pot Delightful Feast

Name: Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 1 kg Chicken Thighs (Skinless and boneless); 2 tbsp Paprika (Sweet or regular); 1 tbsp Garlic Powder (Or freshly minced garlic); 1 tbsp Dried Oregano; 1 tbsp Coriander; 0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional); 1 tbsp Brown Sugar; 1 tsp Cooking Salt (Kosher salt preferred); 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Or apple cider vinegar); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 medium Onion (Sautéed until golden); 1 medium Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) (Deseeded and diced); 1.5 cups Basmati Rice (Or long/medium grain rice); 1 tsp Chili Flakes (Optional); 1 tsp Turmeric Powder; 3 cups Chicken Stock/Broth (Low-sodium preferred); 1 cup Frozen Peas (Optional); Perinaise (Or alternative hot sauce, to taste); 2 stalks Green Onion (Chopped for garnish)

By: GORDON ALEX | Published onFebruary 15, 2026

Nando's Portuguese chicken and rice dish served in a pot, showcasing vibrant flavors.

Chicken Recipes

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A Flavorful Journey with Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty one-pot meal, especially when it brings together the tantalizing flavors of Portuguese cuisine. Nando’s takes inspiration from the vibrant tastes of Africa and Portugal, and their beloved chicken and rice is a testament to that legacy. This dish is a delightful combination of juicy chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, all simmered together effortlessly. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to whip this up in your kitchen.

Reasons to Try It

This isn’t just another chicken and rice recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and a nod to Nando’s rich culinary heritage. Why make this at home? For starters, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to feed a family without breaking the bank. The dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Plus, it’s kid-approved with its mildly spicy yet savory flavor profile.

"Absolutely loved this dish! The spices are just right, and it came together so easily. A new family favorite!" – Satisfied Home Cook

By preparing this delightful feast at home, you can customize the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs, making it as wholesome and nutritious as you desire.

Preparing Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice – One Pot Delightful Feast

Cooking this one-pot wonder is a breeze! You can expect a seamless process where all the ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a flavorful meal that feels both comforting and satisfying.

You start by marinating the chicken with aromatic spices, followed by sautéing onions and bell peppers until they reach that perfect golden hue. Add in the rice and broth, and let the magic happen as everything cooks together.

It’s as straightforward as it sounds—and once you get the hang of it, you’ll have a dish that impresses without needing extensive culinary skills.

Gather These Items

To create this authentic Nando’s experience in your kitchen, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 kg Chicken Thighs (Skinless and boneless)
2 tbsp Paprika (Sweet or regular)
1 tbsp Garlic Powder (Or freshly minced garlic)
1 tbsp Dried Oregano
1 tbsp Coriander
0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional)
1 tbsp Brown Sugar
1 tsp Cooking Salt (Kosher salt preferred)
2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Or apple cider vinegar)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
1 medium Onion (Sautéed until golden)
1 medium Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) (Deseeded and diced)
1.5 cups Basmati Rice (Or long/medium grain rice)
1 tsp Chili Flakes (Optional)
1 tsp Turmeric Powder
3 cups Chicken Stock/Broth (Low-sodium preferred)
1 cup Frozen Peas (Optional)
Perinaise (Or alternative hot sauce, to taste)
2 stalks Green Onion (Chopped for garnish)

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with breast meat or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Each ingredient carries its own charm, contributing to a delightful flavor explosion.

Directions to Follow

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne (if using), brown sugar, and kosher salt. Mix well and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
Sauté: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the sautéed onions and cook until golden.
Add Bell Pepper: Toss in the diced red capsicum and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the basmati rice, chili flakes (if using), turmeric powder, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil.
Simmer: Cover, reduce heat, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Add Peas: Gently fold in the frozen peas and let cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve: Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and drizzle with lemon juice. Serve hot, topped with green onions and your favorite hot sauce.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This dish shines as a centerpiece meal, but there are many ways to elevate your dining experience. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For something heartier, a side of garlic bread or cornbread can add a comforting touch.

If you’re feeling adventurous, blending in some roasted vegetables or grilled corn can brighten up the plate while adding nutritional value.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing this chicken and rice is straightforward! Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it’ll keep well for up to four days. If you want to savor it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Marination Time: Letting the chicken marinate longer can enhance the flavors, so if you have extra time, aim for 1-2 hours.
Rice Tip: For fluffier rice, rinse the Basmati rice in cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting or omitting the cayenne pepper and chili flakes according to your preference.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Try swapping out the chicken thighs for shrimp or tofu for a different protein profile. You could also experiment with spices—perhaps adding cumin for a deeper flavor or experimenting with fresh herbs for a unique twist.

Another idea is to turn this dish into a Mexican-inspired version by adding black beans, corn, and avocado as toppings!

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
- Prep time is approximately 30 minutes, including marinating the chicken. Cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Can I use other types of rice?
- Yes! While Basmati rice gives a nice flavor, you can also use jasmine rice or any long-grain variety.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Absolutely! It stores well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
What if I don’t have paprika?
- If you don’t have paprika, you can use smoked paprika for a different flavor or a combination of chili powder and a little cayenne for heat.
Can I make this spicy?
- Yes! Increase the amount of cayenne pepper and chili flakes to suit your heat preference, or top with hot sauce before serving.
How long does this stay fresh in the fridge?
- The dish stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, as long as stored in an airtight container.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives?
- Yes! Substitute the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini, or use plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu.

This Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavors. Grab your ingredients, gather your family, and create a delightful feast that brings everyone to the table. Happy cooking!