Easy Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot Meal

Discover a flavorful Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot meal recipe that’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners! This dish brings together tender, spicy chicken infused with vibrant Peri Peri sauce and perfectly cooked rice in one pot, making it a fuss-free, aromatic meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Everything cooks together in a single pot, saving you time and cutting down on cleanup.
• Bold Flavors: The spicy, tangy Peri Peri marinade adds a vibrant kick that brightens up the dish.
• Perfect for Weeknight Dinners: Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal meal after a busy day.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Combines protein, carbs, and spices that support a wholesome diet.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice to suit your taste, from mild warmth to fiery hot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot recipe uses simple, staple ingredients that each add their own unique flavor, color, and texture, making the dish irresistibly delicious and visually appealing.

• Chicken thighs: Skin-on bone-in thighs offer juiciness and extra flavor during cooking.
• Peri Peri sauce: A spicy chili-based sauce that infuses the chicken with signature tangy heat.
• Long grain rice: Absorbs the sauce and chicken juices, becoming fragrant and fluffy.
• Onions and garlic: Build a rich aromatic base for the meal.
• Bell peppers: Add a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
• Chicken broth: Helps cook the rice perfectly and deepens the overall taste.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and to keep the chicken moist with a golden crust.
• Smoked paprika: Enhances smokiness and richness, complementing the Peri Peri flavors.
• Lemon juice: Provides a fresh citrusy zing that balances the spice.
• Fresh parsley or coriander: For garnishing and adding freshness.

Variations for Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot

This dish is super adaptable, allowing you to tweak ingredients or spice levels to suit dietary needs or your own creative craving. Here are some easy ways to make it your own.

• Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based take.
• Lower spice version: Use mild Peri Peri sauce or reduce chili quantities to suit sensitive palates.
• Extra veggies: Add chopped zucchini, spinach, or peas for more nutrients and texture.
• Protein swap: Use chicken breast or even shrimp instead of thighs for different textures.
• Rice alternatives: Try basmati, jasmine, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.

How to Make Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine your chicken thighs with plenty of Peri Peri sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and smoked paprika. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight to enhance that bold flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft and fragrant. This forms a rich base that compliments the spices.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and brown both sides in the pot until golden. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful color and flavor to the dish.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, coating each grain with the leftover oil and spices. Pour in chicken broth and any remaining Peri Peri marinade, then bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

Cover the pot and let everything cook gently for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Fluff the rice gently with a fork, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or coriander over the top, and serve hot straight from the pot.

Pro Tips for Making Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot

• Use bone-in chicken thighs: They stay juicier and more flavorful than boneless options.
• Don’t skip marinating: The longer the chicken marinates, the more infused with flavor it becomes.
• Rinse your rice: This helps remove excess starch for perfectly fluffy grains.
• Float a foil tent over the pot: It traps heat and moisture evenly while cooking.
• Adjust liquid as needed: Depending on rice type, add more broth if the mixture looks dry.

How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot

Garnishes

Adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or coriander brightens the dish, while a squeeze of fresh lemon adds an inviting burst of acidity that balances the heat.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to create a complete, satisfying meal that complements the spicy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a vibrant family feast, serve directly from the pot at the center of the table, or plate neatly with a side of cooling yogurt dip or avocado slices for contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days for easy, flavorful meals later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; divide into portions and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, ideal for busy days when you want a quick heat-and-eat option.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore moisture and keep the rice from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this dish?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work, but bone-in pieces add extra flavor and stay juicier during cooking.

How spicy is Peri Peri sauce?

Peri Peri sauce varies by brand or recipe but generally has moderate heat with a smoky, tangy flavor you can adjust with additional chili or by using a milder version.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure the Peri Peri sauce and chicken broth you use are gluten-free, and the recipe will fit gluten-free diets without modification.

What type of rice works best?

Long grain rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and stays fluffy, but you can experiment with basmati or jasmine for a slightly different aroma and texture.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating isn’t mandatory, but it significantly deepens the flavor profile and tenderizes the chicken, making a tastier dish overall.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a delicious, hassle-free dinner that packs a punch, this Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One-Pot recipe is your new go-to. It’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for bringing friends and family together around the table. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen!

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