Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor yet is comforting and easy to make, this Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice Recipe is your new go-to. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a vibrant blend of spices, seared to perfection, and then bathed in a luscious, creamy peri peri sauce that hits just the right balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy. Served atop fluffy, perfectly cooked long grain rice, it’s a harmonious meal that feels special but comes together simply — perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredient list ready for this dish is refreshingly straightforward. Each component is thoughtfully selected to build layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe shine, from the spices that season the chicken to the creamy sauce that ties it all together.

• 2 boneless chicken breasts: These provide a tender, juicy base that soaks up the spices and sauce beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to that gorgeous golden crust.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth and vibrant color to the seasoning mix.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A staple for that rich, savory undertone.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a slight herbal earthiness to complement the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon peri peri sauce: The star ingredient, delivering a fiery kick and tang.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Provides luscious creaminess that softens the spice and creates a silky sauce.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps loosen the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh acidity.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Finishes the sauce with smooth richness and shine.
• 1 cup long grain white rice: The perfect fluffy base that soaks up the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups water: Used to cook the rice to tender perfection.

How to Make Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice Recipe

Step 1: Heat the skillet and oil

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Waiting until the oil is hot before adding the chicken will ensure that golden brown sear we’ve all come to love.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Generously sprinkle the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is the backbone of the flavor profile, making sure each bite is packed with warmth and depth.

Step 3: Sear the chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the exterior to be beautifully browned while the inside cooks through to juicy tenderness.

Step 4: Set the chicken aside

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Keeping the chicken warm while making the sauce will help the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 5: Start the sauce in the same skillet

In the flavorful skillet, add peri peri sauce, heavy cream, chicken broth, and lemon juice. This combination creates the creamy yet zesty sauce that defines the dish.

Step 6: Bring the sauce to a simmer

Scrape up any browned bits from the chicken for extra flavor, stir the mixture, and bring it gently to a simmer. This step is essential for melding the flavors and starting to thicken the sauce.

Step 7: Let the sauce thicken

Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes. As it reduces, the sauce will develop a beautifully creamy consistency that clings perfectly to every bite of chicken.

Step 8: Finish the sauce with butter

Stir in the butter until it melts completely into the sauce. This adds a luxurious smoothness and rounds out the flavors.

Step 9: Return chicken to the sauce

Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, coating them thoroughly in the sauce. This final simmer helps the chicken soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 10: Simmer for richer flavor

Let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully.

Step 11: Prep the rice

While the chicken is soaking up the sauce, rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step removes excess starch and prevents your rice from being gummy.

Step 12: Cook the rice

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a separate pot, add the rinsed rice, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 18-20 minutes until tender and fluffy.

Step 13: Fluff and keep covered

Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork and keep it covered to maintain warmth and moisture until you’re ready to serve.

Step 14: Serve the Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice Recipe

Plate the tender chicken atop the fluffy rice and ladle extra creamy peri peri sauce over it all. Every mouthful delivers that perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and hearty rice.

How to Serve Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a pop of green and a burst of freshness that complements the creamy peri peri sauce wonderfully. A wedge of lemon on the side offers a zesty lift if you want to brighten things up further.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but crisp roasted vegetables or a simple green salad provide a lovely contrast in texture and a dose of healthy greens. Garlic bread or warm naan bread are also fantastic for soaking up that irresistible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, slice the chicken breasts before plating and fan them over the rice for a visually appealing presentation. You could also mound the rice first and nestle the chicken on top, garnishing with colorful chopped red chilies for added flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy peri peri chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce holds up well, and the flavors actually deepen after resting.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely. Portion the chicken with some sauce and rice in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the creamy peri peri chicken and rice over low heat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice fluffy and the sauce creamy. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and tend to remain juicier, which can add even more richness to this creamy peri peri chicken with rice recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

Is peri peri sauce very spicy?

Peri peri sauce varies depending on brand or recipe, but it generally has a pleasant heat balanced by tangy and smoky flavors. If you prefer milder dishes, start with less sauce and adjust to your taste.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can swap in brown rice, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more water. Make sure to adjust accordingly to get fluffy, tender rice for the perfect base.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, coconut milk or half-and-half can work, but the sauce may be less rich. For the creamiest results true to the recipe’s spirit, heavy cream is recommended.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can make this dish dairy-free by replacing heavy cream with coconut cream and using olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute instead of butter. The flavor will shift slightly but remain delicious and creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s beautifully balanced, straightforward to prepare, and endlessly satisfying, perfect for anyone who loves a spicy-smooth sauce smothering tender chicken over fluffy rice. Give it a try and watch it become a treasured favorite in your kitchen!

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