If you’re looking for a dish that delivers a punch of bold, zesty flavor while keeping things simple, this Peri Peri Chicken & Rice is exactly what your dinner table needs. Juicy chicken breasts are lovingly bathed in a vibrant peri peri marinade—think a tangy kiss of lemon juice, garlic heat, and smoky paprika—before they come together in a one-pan baked feast. The rice soaks up all those spicy, peppery juices, turning each tender grain into a flavor bomb. You’ll see vibrant red and yellow bell peppers join the party, offering a sweet crunch that balances out the heat, while onions and garlic lay down a savory foundation. This dish may look impressive, but it’s a beginner-friendly wonder that feels equal parts cozy comfort food and exotic adventure.
Not only is this Peri Peri Chicken & Rice a feast for the senses, it’s also a time-saver and mood-lifter all rolled into one skillet. With just 20 minutes of hands-on preparation, a quick 30-minute bake time at 375°F (190°C), and a brief 5-minute rest to lock in juices, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. At around 450 calories per serving, it’s perfectly portioned for lunch or dinner and versatile enough to fit into any menu plan. Whether you’re hosting family or craving an easy weeknight meal, this dish checks all the boxes: beginner difficulty, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. Get ready to impress yourself as much as your guests!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN PERI PERI CHICKEN & RICE
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a pivotal role in building layers of flavor, adding texture, and ensuring a balanced, mouthwatering result. From the succulent chicken breasts soaking up spicy marinade to the fluffy rice that absorbs every drop of savory goodness, here’s why each element matters.
- Chicken breasts
Lean and tender, boneless skinless chicken breasts are your perfect protein canvas. They soak up the zesty peri peri marinade beautifully, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful without extra fat.
- Peri peri sauce
The star of our spice show, this sauce brings that signature African-Portuguese heat, tang, and depth. Adjust its fiery levels to suit your taste, making each portion mild or wild.
- Long-grain white rice
Fluffy and non-sticky, long-grain rice soaks up the vibrant juices from the chicken and vegetables. It turns into a flavor-packed base that balances the dish’s heat and texture.
- Chicken broth or water
A simple liquid to cook the rice, chicken broth adds savory richness, while water keeps the profile lighter—your choice for subtle nuance in every grain.
- Red bell pepper
Sweet and vibrant, diced red peppers add crunch and a pop of color, offering a juicy contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Yellow bell pepper
Similar to its red counterpart, the yellow pepper contributes a mellow sweetness and bright hue, making the dish as appealing to the eyes as to the palate.
- Onion
Chopped medium onion forms the aromatic base. As it sautés, it releases natural sugars that mellow out and enhance the savory backbone of the recipe.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the oil with its pungent, aromatic punch. It forms an essential layer of depth that lingers in every mouthful.
- Smoked paprika
This spice brings a gentle smokiness and subtle depth, complementing the peri peri sauce and enhancing the dish’s complexity.
- Salt
Essential for seasoning, salt elevates all the other flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.
- Black pepper
A pinch of freshly ground black pepper adds a final hint of warmth and piquancy, rounding out the spice profile.
- Olive oil
Used for searing and sautéing, olive oil ensures a golden crust on the chicken and serves as the flavorful medium for the vegetables.
- Lemon juice
Bright and acidic, lemon juice in the marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds a zesty lift that cuts through the richness.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley brings a final flourish of fresh, herbaceous notes and visual appeal when sprinkled on top just before serving.
HOW TO MAKE PERI PERI CHICKEN & RICE
Bringing this one-pan wonder to life is easier than you might think. Each step layers flavor and ensures tender, perfectly cooked chicken and rice. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot environment so the chicken and rice finish cooking evenly.
2. In a small bowl, combine the peri peri sauce and lemon juice. Use your hands or a brush to coat the chicken breasts thoroughly, making sure every surface is covered in that bright, spicy marinade. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes so the flavors penetrate deeply.
3. In a large, oven-proof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. When it shimmers, add the marinated chicken breasts and sear each side for 2–3 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. To the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper under medium heat. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes.
5. Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet, stirring to coat each grain with oil and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, and stir until the spices are fully distributed.
6. Pour in the chicken broth or water, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Carefully nestle the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
8. Remove the skillet from the oven and uncover carefully to avoid steam burns. Let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors settle and the juices redistribute.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Dig in and enjoy the colorful, flavor-packed results!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PERI PERI CHICKEN & RICE
When this dish emerges from the oven, it’s already a showstopper. But you can elevate the presentation and flavor pairing even further. Here are a few crowd-pleasing serving ideas to bring out the best in your Peri Peri Chicken & Rice:
- Crisp Mixed Green Salad
Pair the warm, spicy skillet with a bowl of crisp mixed greens, lightly dressed in olive oil and lemon. The freshness and acidity help balance the heat and richness.
- Warm Flatbreads or Naan
Serve alongside soft flatbreads or naan, perfect for scooping up every grain of rice and drizzling any leftover peri peri sauce. Brush them with garlic butter for extra indulgence.
- Cooling Yogurt Drizzle
Spoon a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of salt over each plate. This creamy element tames the spice and adds a chill contrast.
- Lemon Wedges and Extra Herbs
Offer lemon wedges on the side and dust extra fresh parsley or cilantro over the top. Guests can squeeze more citrus or scatter herbs for a personalized finishing touch.
HOW TO STORE PERI PERI CHICKEN & RICE
Leftovers can be just as delightful as the first plate, and proper storage will keep your Peri Peri Chicken & Rice tasting fresh days later. Here’s how to lock in those flavors:
- Refrigerator Storage
Transfer cooled chicken and rice into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. This preserves moisture and prevents any unwanted odors from affecting the dish.
- Freezer Method
For longer storage, portion the cooled meal into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Label with date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Gentle Reheating
When reheating refrigerated portions, add a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
- Oven Reheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the dish in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 10–15 minutes until heated through. This method recreates that fresh-baked texture.
CONCLUSION
This Peri Peri Chicken & Rice recipe brings together the perfect harmony of spice, tang, and comfort in a single skillet, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. From the moment you coat those chicken breasts in zesty peri peri sauce and lemon juice, to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, each step is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The vibrant bell peppers and aromatic rice soak up every drop of seasoned broth, while the golden-seared chicken locks in juicy tenderness. As a beginner-friendly recipe, you’ll find it’s easy to master and even easier to love—plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan. Don’t forget that you can print this article to keep it handy in your recipe binder or bookmark it online for quick access whenever you’re craving that spicy kick.
With a prep time of just 20 minutes, 30 minutes of cooking in the oven, and a brief 5-minute rest, you can have this colorful, satisfying dish on the table in under an hour. At around 450 calories per serving, it’s well-suited for both lunch and dinner, and the seasoning can be dialed up or down based on your heat tolerance. Whether you’re looking to spice up a family meal, impress friends at a casual dinner, or simply enjoy a deliciously seasoned bowl of comfort food, this Peri Peri Chicken & Rice is a winner. You can find a FAQ below to answer any lingering questions you might have. If you decide to give it a try, feel free to leave your comments, questions, or feedback—I’m always here to help you get these flavors just right!
Peri Peri Chicken & Rice
Description
Juicy chicken marinated in zesty peri peri sauce, nestled on a bed of aromatic rice and vibrant peppers. This dish brings bold flavors to your table and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a small bowl, combine the peri peri sauce and lemon juice. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture, ensuring they are well covered. Set aside to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
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In a large oven-proof skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper until they are softened, about 4-5 minutes.
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Stir in the rice, ensuring it is well coated with the oil and vegetable mixture. Add the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are well distributed.
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Pour in the chicken broth or water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Nestle the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture.
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Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
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Remove the skillet from the oven, uncover carefully, and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Note
- Peri peri sauce can vary in spice level, so adjust to your taste preferences.
- For additional flavor, you can add a splash of white wine along with the broth.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables to complement its flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
