Name: Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Portuguese inspired
Ingredients: 500g/1 lb chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into bite size pieces; 2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet, not spicy); 1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 large garlic clove, minced); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp coriander; 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional, omit for no spice); 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt (+50% for flakes, halve for table salt); 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), deseeded, chopped into 1cm/0.4″ squares; 1 1/2 cups basmati rice (or long grain or medium grain rice); 1/4 tsp chilli flakes/red pepper flakes (omit for no spice); 2 tsp turmeric powder; 2 1/4 cups chicken stock/broth, low sodium; 1 cup frozen peas (still frozen); 1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt (+50% for flakes, halve for table salt); Perinaise, Pink Sauce, or other preferred sauces; Green onion, finely sliced; Pink Sauce: 3/4 cup sour cream or yogurt mixed with 2-3 tbsp sriracha (for adults) or ketchup (for kids or spice-sensitive)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

If you love bold flavors and easy cooking, then you are going to adore this Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs rubbed in a lively combination of Portuguese spices, then cooked together with fragrant, vibrant rice packed with just the right kick of heat. It’s a one-pot wonder that captures the heart and soul of Nando’s beloved Peri Peri style but elevates it to new homemade heights. And the best part? All the magic happens in a single pot, making dinner a joyous, effortless experience with flavors that truly sing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a small white bowl with a rustic brown rim filled with a creamy light orange sauce that has tiny red specks throughout. A gold spoon is scooping some of the smooth sauce, showing its thick and glossy texture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a slightly blurred neutral cloth in the background. The lighting highlights the shine and softness of the sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for creating the rich, layered flavors of the Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe. Each element plays its part, from the smoky paprika in the chicken rub to the bright pops of turmeric and peas in the rice, building a dish that’s colorful, hearty, and irresistibly tasty.

500g/1 lb chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into bite size pieces: The perfect cut for juicy, tender bites that soak up all the spices.
2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet, not spicy): Adds a gentle smokiness that’s the base for the seasoning blend.
1 tsp garlic powder: Or a large minced garlic clove for fresh garlic flavor.
1 tsp dried oregano: Brings a Mediterranean earthy touch to match the Portuguese inspiration.
1/4 tsp coriander: Adds a subtle floral spice signature to the rub.
1/4 tsp cayenne (optional): For those who want an extra kick in their chicken seasoning.
1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
1 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Used both in seasoning and cooking for richness and moisture.
1/2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken; apple cider vinegar works too.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing the rice and veggies.
2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Freshness that wakes up the whole dish.
1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and body to the rice base.
1 red capsicum (bell pepper), deseeded and chopped: For color and a subtle crunch.
1 1/2 cups basmati rice: Or any long or medium grain rice you prefer, creating a fluffy texture.
1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional): Sprinkles of heat to mimic Nando’s fire.
2 tsp turmeric powder: Gorgeous golden color and earthy warmth for the rice.
2 1/4 cups low sodium chicken stock/broth: The flavorful liquid that cooks the rice and infuses it deeply.
1 cup frozen peas (keep frozen): Pops of green sweetness stirred in at the end.
1/2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt: The final seasoning balance for the rice.
Garnishes (optional but recommended): Perinaise or Pink sauce, plus finely sliced green onions for freshness.

How to Make Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by mixing all the Portuguese chicken seasoning ingredients in a bowl—paprika, garlic powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne, brown sugar, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss the bite-sized chicken thighs in the mixture until completely coated. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with vibrant flavor, and while you can cook it straight away, letting it rest a little helps those spices soak in beautifully.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-based pot on high. Add the seasoned chicken and sear it until the pieces get a nice sealed edge and a bit of color. Don’t worry if it’s not golden brown, a gentle char is perfect here. Once seared, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon, leaving the flavorful oil behind in the pot. This oil is a treasure chest of taste!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Into the same pot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for about a minute until fragrant and translucent. Then toss in the chopped red capsicum and continue sautéing for another minute and a half. These softened vegetables contribute sweetness, crunch, and brilliant color to your dish, making the rice base exciting even before it’s fully cooked.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Spices

Next, stir the basmati rice into the pot, coating each grain with the aromatic oil and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle in the chili flakes and turmeric powder, then pour in the chicken stock and salt. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, but remember not to over-stir which can make the rice mushy later. Finally, evenly scatter the seared chicken back over the rice, including any flavorful juices that have collected in the bowl.

Step 5: Simmer and Steam

Bring your pot to a gentle simmer, then cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it steam quietly for 15 minutes—this is when the rice absorbs that brilliant chicken stock and spices, and the chicken finishes cooking to tender perfection. Try not to lift the lid or stir during this time to keep the texture just right.

Step 6: Rest the Dish

Remove the pot from the heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice rest for 10 minutes so all the steam gets absorbed and the flavors deepen. This little pause gives you time to prepare any garnishes and keeps the rice fluffy and separate—just the way Nando’s rice dreams to be.

Step 7: Fluff and Serve!

Take off the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the peas so they warm through with their lovely fresh snap. Scoop generous portions into bowls and drizzle with your favorite Perinaise or Pink Sauce. A sprinkle of finely sliced green onions adds a final fresh note to this comforting, spice-packed one-pot meal.

How to Serve Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe

A large white pot filled with yellow rice mixed with small pieces of chicken, red bell pepper bits, and green onion slices scattered on top. A wooden spoon lifts a portion of the dish, showing the rice's fluffy texture and the chunks of chicken. On top of the rice, there is a light drizzle of creamy pink sauce that adds contrast to the yellow and green colors, all set on a white marbled surface with a soft cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes elevate this dish from great to unforgettable. A generous drizzle of Perinaise or Pink Sauce adds creamy, cooling contrast to the spicy, smoky chicken and rice. The sharp bite of finely sliced green onions not only adds a burst of color but a fresh, vibrant crunch that brightens every mouthful. Don’t underestimate the power of a little garnish—it really completes the dish.

Side Dishes

While this Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe stands beautifully alone, you can pair it with simple sides to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette refreshes the palate, or roasted vegetables lend extra heartiness. For a lighter touch, grilled corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with smoked paprika is a perfect companion, echoing the Portuguese flair.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress friends or kids at dinner? Serve this in a rustic clay dish or colorful bowls that highlight the golden rice and red peppers. Offering little ramekins of extra sauces lets everyone customize their spice level. For a casual family dinner, plate it directly from the pot to the table, garnished with fresh herbs to create a warm, shareable experience that feels joyful and relaxed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic meal prep or next-day lunch option. Just be sure to cool it quickly before refrigerating to keep it fresh and safe.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes well. Portion the cooled chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, the rice might be a little softer, but reheating gently with a splash of chicken broth or water brings it back to life nicely.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth or water to loosen the rice and prevent drying out. You can also microwave portions, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Finish with a fresh drizzle of Perinaise or a sprinkle of fresh green onions to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can, but thighs are recommended for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender during the cooking process. Chicken breasts may dry out more easily especially with the longer simmering involved.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level is adjustable. Removing the cayenne from the chicken seasoning and the chili flakes from the rice will make it mild but still full of flavor. You can always add extra heat on the side with sauces or fresh chilies.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Basmati is ideal for its fluffy texture, but long grain or medium grain rice also works well. Avoid sticky or short grain varieties as they can make the dish too dense and clumpy.

What if I don’t have all the spices for the Portuguese rub?

Don’t stress! The blend is simple and flexible—paprika, garlic, and a pinch of oregano go a long way. You can also substitute with a good quality Peri Peri seasoning if you have one handy.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

While the original recipe centers on chicken, you can adapt it by using plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or cauliflower florets. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and keep the seasoning for that signature flavor punch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant Portuguese flavors yet is incredibly simple to make, the Nando’s Portuguese Chicken and Spicy Rice One-Pot Recipe is ready to become your new go-to. It’s a joyful combination of spicy, smoky, and savory notes all married in one pot that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend feasts. Dive in and make this at home—you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it out!