There’s something magical about a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table, and that’s exactly what Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice does. After a long day, when the clock is ticking and hunger pangs are setting in, this recipe is your go-to solution. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for impressing family or friends. The tender chicken thighs, enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce, served over fluffy rice, create a delightful experience that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
This Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s not just about speed; it’s about flavor that packs a punch. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly simple. The creamy sauce balances the spice perfectly, making it a hit with everyone at the table. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, it adds richness and helps in browning the chicken.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of the chicken.
Peri-peri seasoning (or sauce): This spicy blend brings the heat and character to the dish. You can find it in most grocery stores or make your own!
Onion: Diced onions add sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that’s hard to resist.
Chicken broth: This forms the base of your creamy sauce, adding moisture and flavor.
Heavy cream: The star of the show, it creates that luscious, creamy texture we all love.
Uncooked white rice: Fluffy rice acts as the perfect canvas for the chicken and sauce.
Frozen peas: These add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness, plus they’re a great source of nutrition.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley is optional but adds a fresh finish and a splash of color when garnishing.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before serving. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can be substituted, just adjust the cooking time to avoid dryness. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is a straightforward dish that’s bursting with flavor. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms up, season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and peri-peri seasoning. This seasoning is key; it adds that signature kick!
Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. Browning the chicken not only locks in moisture but also enhances the flavor. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step is crucial; garlic adds depth and richness to the dish. You want it fragrant but not burnt, so keep an eye on it!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the heavy cream, and watch as it transforms into a luscious sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Simmering is essential here; it thickens the sauce and enhances the overall taste of your Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Time to add the uncooked white rice to the skillet. Stir it in, ensuring it’s well-coated with that creamy sauce. Then, place the cooked chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. This step is vital; it allows the rice to absorb the flavors and cook evenly. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
Step 5: Add the Peas
After the rice is cooked, it’s time to add the frozen peas. Stir them in and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Not only do the peas add a pop of color, but they also bring a touch of sweetness and nutrition to the dish.
Once everything is combined and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle, making each bite even more delightful!
Tips for Success
Always season your chicken well; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth to your dish.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking.
Let the dish sit after cooking; it helps the flavors meld together.
Feel free to adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works great for even cooking.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up those delicious bits.
Lid: Essential for covering the skillet while the rice cooks.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but handy for ensuring chicken is cooked through.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based delight.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a fresh twist on flavor.
Different Grains: Swap out white rice for quinoa or brown rice for a healthier grain option.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, just before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the spice.
Garnish: Top with extra parsley for a fresh touch before serving.
FAQs about Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts can dry out if overcooked. Aim for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
What if I can’t find peri-peri seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own peri-peri seasoning using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, any spicy seasoning blend will work in a pinch!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy peri-peri chicken and rice ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is gluten-free! Just ensure that your chicken broth and any seasoning blends you use are certified gluten-free.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of peri-peri seasoning or use a mild version. For those who love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before serving to kick it up a notch!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy and connection. The rich, creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken and fluffy rice is a symphony of flavors that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re sharing it with family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying good food and great company. Dive in, savor each bite, and relish the experience!
A delicious and creamy dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a spicy peri-peri sauce, served over fluffy rice with peas.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon peri-peri seasoning (or sauce)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and peri-peri seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer.
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Place the cooked chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
For extra spice, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dish before serving.
Substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting the cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking.
