Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe

Introduction

Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and perfectly cooked rice. This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients

• Chicken (pieces of your choice)
• Rice (long grain or medium grain, 1 cup)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Spices (such as paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the chicken in a large pan with your chosen spices and minced garlic until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
2. Step 2: Add the rice to the pan, stir to combine with the chicken and spices, then add enough water or broth to cover. Simmer gently until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with garlic and spices for an hour before cooking.
• Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner options.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Include smoked paprika or a pinch of saffron for a more authentic Portuguese flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of water to keep the rice moist, or microwave until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use long grain, medium grain, or even basmati rice. Adjust cooking time and liquid as needed based on the rice type.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare the dish up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Portuguese Chicken and Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 53 reviews

Portuguese Chicken and Rice is a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken cooked with aromatic garlic and traditional Portuguese spices, combined with rice that’s simmered to perfection. This comforting dish balances savory spices and rich chicken broth to create a satisfying and authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Portuguese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Rice

• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth

Garlic and Spices

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper if using. Rub the spices evenly over the chicken.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip and brown the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add rice and broth: Pour in the rice and stir to coat grains with the aromatic mixture. Then, add chicken broth and stir well to combine.
5. Simmer everything together: Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin side up, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Rest before serving: Turn off the heat and let the dish rest covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken on top.

Notes

• For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken with spices and garlic for at least 2 hours before cooking.
• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for juicier meat and richer flavor.
• Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level or omit for milder taste.
• Leftovers reheat well and make great next-day meals.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Portuguese chicken, chicken and rice, one-pot meal, paprika chicken, traditional Portuguese recipe, comfort food