Inspired by the flavors of South Africa's beloved Portuguese restaurants like Nando’s, this recipe brings the goodness of Portuguese cuisine to your home. While Nando’s has gone international, not everyone has access to their famous sauce.
But fear not!
With our spices and this straightforward recipe, you can recreate the magic in your kitchen.
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 30 min
Cooking Time: 1 - 1.30 hours
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons chopped garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices:
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons crushed chili (chili flakes)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked)
- 15g Portuguese spice
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Creamy Sauce for Basting:
- 1 cup fresh cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- About 10 tablespoons Nando's peri-peri sauce if you have
or
1/2 teaspoon of our Peri-Peri spice (add more for an extra kick)
Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken for 20 minutes or more.
2. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and pour in 1/2 cup of stock. Cook on medium-low heat, turning the chicken a few times.
4. Baste the chicken with half of the creamy sauce during cooking.
5. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
6. Once the liquids evaporate, and the chicken is tender, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Grill for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken edges char slightly. Spoon sauce from the pot/casserole over the top when serving.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
South African Twist:
This Creamy Portuguese Chicken has a spicy and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken breasts. Serve immediately with sides like salad, Portuguese rolls, savory rice, or chips/wedges.
Extra Notes:
- For oven baking, avoid adding water. Gradually baste the sauce on the chicken as it bakes.
- Perfect for an open-fire grill/BBQ using boned chicken pieces. Follow the initial steps, and instead of the oven, take it straight to the fire.
- Original Nando's peri-peri sauce elevates this creamy delight to the next level.
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