Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is a delightful dish that brings a perfect blend of spices with a creamy texture, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion. This dish is sure to excite your taste buds and leave you satisfied. The rich flavors of peri-peri sauce combined with creamy ingredients result in a comforting and savory dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of flavors. The peri-peri sauce adds a spicy kick, perfectly balanced by the creaminess of heavy cream, while the chicken remains juicy and tender. It’s not just about taste; this recipe is also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice, providing a complete and hearty meal that everyone will love.

How to Make Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice

Making Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice is straightforward, even for novice cooks. The first step involves seasoning the chicken breasts to enhance their flavor. Then, you will sear them to achieve a beautiful golden crust. As you sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet, the aromatic base adds depth to the dish. Finally, by adding chicken stock, heavy cream, and peri-peri sauce, you create a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken, making every bite delightful.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons peri-peri sauce
2 cups cooked white rice
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup chicken stock
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side).
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and translucent.
Add chicken stock to deglaze the pan, stirring to lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Stir in the heavy cream, peri-peri sauce, and lemon juice; let simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet and allow it to simmer until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Serve the creamy chicken over cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice

Serve this dish hot, placing the creamy chicken alongside or over a mound of fluffy white rice. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over the rice, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. For an extra touch, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

How to Store Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately from the rice to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Tips to Make Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of peri-peri sauce to suit your taste preference.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking can help retain its juices.
Feel free to switch up the rice: brown rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice are all great alternatives.

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, try adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and garlic. You can also swap the heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free option, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure they are cooked through.

2. What if I don’t have peri-peri sauce?
If you cannot find peri-peri sauce, you can create a similar blend using a mixture of hot sauce, garlic, and lemon juice.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy gravy and chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving and cook the rice fresh.

Indulge in the flavors of Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken with Rice, and enjoy a wonderful meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious to eat!