Peri Peri Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a spicy kick from peri peri seasoning. The one-pot method means you can toss everything in the pan and let it cook, making it a simple, no-fuss dinner. The combination of rice and peas adds a great balance of texture and flavor, making this dish both hearty and healthy. It’s quick to make, customizable, and the perfect choice for a busy weeknight.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tsp sunflower oil

• 600 g (1.3 lb) skinless, boneless chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tsp peri peri seasoning (more for extra heat, up to 4 tsp)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red onion, peeled and chopped

• 2 red bell peppers, deseeded and chopped

• 800 ml (3.5 cups) hot chicken stock (store-bought or homemade)

• 3 tbsp tomato purée

• 200 g (7 oz) long grain rice, rinsed

• 200 g (7 oz) frozen peas

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

directions

1. Cook the chicken:

   • Heat sunflower oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken pieces and cook for 5 minutes until starting to brown on all sides.

2. Add the seasonings:

   • Add the peri peri seasoning, garlic, and onion to the pan. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

3. Add the vegetables and liquid:

   • Stir in the chopped red peppers, hot chicken stock, tomato purée, rice, and plenty of salt and pepper.

4. Simmer:

   • Put the lid on the pan, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 15 minutes. Check the rice occasionally to ensure it’s not drying out.

5. Add the peas:

   • Once the rice is nearly cooked and most of the stock has been absorbed, add the frozen peas. Stir and cover, cooking for another 5 minutes until everything is cooked through and the peas are heated.

6. Serve:

   • Once everything is fully cooked, give it a final stir and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for fried halloumi cubes to make it a vegetarian dish.

• Spicy: If you like your food extra spicy, add more peri peri seasoning or a dash of chili flakes.

• Different Veggies: Feel free to swap out the peppers or add additional vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or carrots.

• Rice Alternative: You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm up in a pan with a splash of water or stock to loosen up the rice.

FAQs

Can I use different seasoning if I don’t have peri peri?

Yes, you can substitute peri peri seasoning with chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder for a similar flavor profile. Adjust to taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the dish in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two before reheating. The flavors will actually improve as they sit!

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Just add more peri peri seasoning or toss in some fresh chili peppers for added heat.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Keep an eye on it while it cooks.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Make sure to stir the rice occasionally and check that the pan doesn’t dry out. You can add a little extra stock if necessary.

What can I serve with this dish?

This one-pot meal is already quite hearty, but you can serve it with a side of greens, like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad, for added veggies.

Conclusion

This Peri Peri Chicken and Rice One Pot is a flavorful, comforting, and quick meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that everyone will love. The spices, tender chicken, and rice cook together in one pot, making cleanup easy and dinner stress-free. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite!