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Tuga Pops − Friday, November 20, 2015, 11 Years ago in Chicken Recipes
4 out of 5 with 26 ratings

Nando's Delicious Chicken Rice Recipe

Savor the bold flavors of Nando's Chicken Rice, featuring spicy piri-piri chicken, saffron Arborio rice, roasted peppers, and zesty lime!
1 h 20 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 30 min Cooking Time 50 min

You will love this Nando's Delicious Chicken Rice Recipe

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Nando's Delicious Chicken Rice, a delightful dish that combines perfectly cooked Arborio rice with tender, grilled chicken thighs. Infused with smoked paprika and saffron, this recipe is elevated by zesty lime and roasted red pepper, making it a feast for the senses. Perfect for any gathering, it's both comforting and bursting with flavor. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy yet impressive meal!


Ingredients

2 Tbsp Olive oil2 Onions, roughly chopped4 Garlic cloves, crushed3 Tomatoes, roughly chopped1 tsp Smoked paprikaPinch of saffron1 cup Arborio rice3 Cups (750ml) Chicken stock½ Cup (125ml) Piri-Piri sauce4 Chicken thighs2 Tbsp Canola oilSalt to taste1 Roasted red pepperFreshly squeezed lime juice1 Tbsp parsley, roughly chopped

Equipment:

Large skilletWooden spoonMeasuring spoonsMeasuring cupsOvenCutting boardKnifeSaucepan

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Heat the olive oil over a medium heat and sauté the onions until golden. Add the garlic and tomatoes and cook for another minute. Add the smoked paprika and saffron and allow to infuse for 5 minutes. 
  2. Pour the Arborio rice into the pan and toast slightly. Add the chicken stock mixed with the piri-piri  sauce and leave to simmer, until most of the liquid has been absorbed, but the rice is not dry. Do not stir the rice, as you want a crusty layer to form on the bottom of the pan. 
  3. While the paella is cooking, heat the canola oil over a medium heat. Add the chicken to the pan to brown, then remove and cook in the oven for 15 minutes.  
  4. To serve, place the chicken thighs and roasted red pepper in paella. Scatter over the parsley and squeeze over lots of fresh lime.

Recipe Tips

When cooking the Arborio rice, stir it frequently and gradually add the chicken stock. This helps release the starches and achieve a creamy texture, which is crucial for a good risotto-like consistency.
To enhance the flavor of the chicken thighs, marinate them in a mixture of piri-piri sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with more depth and a spicy kick.
Avoid overcooking the chicken thighs by using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, detracting from the dish's overall enjoyment.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Nando's

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute Arborio rice with another type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute Arborio rice with other short-grain rices like Carnaroli or even medium-grain rice such as jasmine or basmati. However, note that Arborio rice is specifically used for its creaminess, so the texture might differ slightly.

How can I store leftover chicken rice?

Allow the chicken rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm it in a pan with a splash of chicken stock or water to prevent it from drying out.

What should I do if my chicken thighs are not cooking evenly?

Ensure that the chicken thighs are of similar size and thickness. If they are browning too quickly on the outside without cooking through, consider lowering the oven temperature or covering them loosely with foil while baking to allow for even cooking.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and crisp wine offers a refreshing acidity that complements the spicy notes of the Piri-Piri sauce and the richness of the chicken.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - This wine's vibrant citrus and herbal notes pair well with the lime and roasted red pepper, enhancing the dish's flavors.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This lager has a balanced flavor profile that refreshes the palate while complementing the spices in the chicken dish.

General: Pale Ale - The hoppy bitterness and citrusy notes in a Pale Ale provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken and the heat from the Piri-Piri sauce.

Other Beverages

Lemonade: The tangy sweetness of lemonade enhances the dish's flavors and balances the heat from the spices beautifully.

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Reviews (2) Add a review

Jean do Graca Delgado
Jean do Graca Delgado
I'd throw in a few green olives & some green peas if I want to call it "paella;" deglaze the chicken with some white wine or vino verde, too.
5 Years ago, Friday, August 20, 2021

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a
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