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Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Delicious Portuguese Chicken and Rice: A Family Favorite Meal

Experience the vibrant flavors of Portuguese Chicken and Rice, a simple and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs tender and juicy
  • 2 tablespoons paprika opt for sweet for a milder taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or use fresh minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano fresh oregano can be used
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for spiciness
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar can be omitted for low-sugar option
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust according to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
For the Rice
  • 1.5 cups basmati rice rinsed
  • 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
  • 3 cups chicken stock or broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas or use fresh peas
Optional Garnishes
  • to taste perinaise spicy mayo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons green onion chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne, brown sugar, and salt in a bowl. Coat the chicken thighs with the seasoning and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice
  2. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice
  3. Lower the heat and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Add chopped red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice
  4. Stir in rinsed basmati rice and remaining seasonings. Pour in chicken stock and add frozen peas. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice
  5. Nestle seared chicken on top of the rice, partially submerged. Pour back any resting juices from the chicken. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice
  6. Turn off heat and let it sit covered for an additional 10 minutes to finish cooking.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice
  7. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the chicken. Optionally garnish with perinaise and green onions.
    Portuguese Chicken and Rice

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Adjust spicy levels to suit taste and ensure to use a heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking.

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