PERI PERI CHICKEN AND RICE
Spice up your dinner with this mouthwatering Peri Peri Chicken and Rice! This dish features tender, marinated chicken thighs coated in a zesty and spicy Peri Peri sauce made from fresh chillies, garlic, and aromatic spices. Baked to perfection, the chicken is juicy on the inside with a crispy skin on the outside. Served atop fluffy, seasoned rice infused with bell peppers and a hint of chicken seasoning, this meal is not only satisfying but also bursting with vibrant colors and tastes. For an extra zing, finish it off with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.It invites you to explore the vibrant flavors of African cuisine while providing a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver a burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
For the Peri Peri Chicken:
For the Rice:
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
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- In a blender, combine a chopped onion, bird's eye chillies, mild red chillies, lime or lemon zest, a peeled lime or lemon, garlic cloves, salt, smoked paprika, dried oregano, thyme, tomato paste, brown sugar, white vinegar, and oil.
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- Blend the ingredients until a smooth paste forms.
Marinate the Chicken:
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- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl.
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- Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken.
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- Use your hands or a spatula to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.
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- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least a couple of hours, or preferably overnight for better flavor.
Bake the Chicken:
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- Preheat your oven at 180 c.
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- Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top.
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- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the wire rack, ensuring they are skin-side down.
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- Reserve a portion of the marinade for later use.
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- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through and have crispy skin.
Prepare the Rice:
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- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
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- Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain it.
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- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
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- Add diced onion and bell peppers, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
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- Add the soaked and drained rice to the pot, stirring to combine.
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- Pour in a portion of the reserved marinade and stir again.
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- Add water and seasoning to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil.
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- Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook until all the water evaporates and the rice is tender. This will take around 15-20 minutes.
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- After cooking, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes.
Serve:
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- Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter.
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- Place the baked chicken thighs on top of the rice.
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- Drizzle with the reserved marinade for added flavor.
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- For an extra kick, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 827.15kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 47.55g74%
- Saturated Fat 9.11g46%
- Trans Fat 0.21g
- Cholesterol 163.33mg55%
- Sodium 880.66mg37%
- Potassium 712.19mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 64.89g22%
- Dietary Fiber 2.75g11%
- Sugars 6.66g
- Protein 33.8g68%
- Vitamin A 107.83 IU
- Vitamin C 97.81 mg
- Calcium 50.92 mg
- Iron 2.81 mg
- Vitamin D 0.16 IU
- Vitamin E 4.68 IU
- Vitamin K 26.96 mcg
- Thiamin 0.24 mg
- Riboflavin 0.35 mg
- Niacin 9.72 mg
- Vitamin B6 1.06 mg
- Folate 35.52 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1.03 mcg
- Phosphorus 377.28 mg
- Magnesium 74.23 mg
- Zinc 3.22 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
I didn't add birdeye chillies, just added medium chillies for less heat.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can be sprinkled on top for a fresh touch.
Serve with a side of cooling yogurt or tzatziki to balance the heat, and a fresh salad to add a refreshing crunch.
User Reviews
Very helpful recipe
it 2 and 1/2 cups
Could you clarify what you mean by 2 and 2 1/2 cups of rice. Is it 2 or 2 1/2. Eager to make this. Thank you.
How much water do you add please?