Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Africa right to your dining table! Our Creamy Peri Peri Chicken with Rice is a delightful fusion of spice and creaminess that will leave you craving more. With succulent chicken breasts bathed in a rich peri peri sauce and paired perfectly with fluffy rice, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that takes just 40 minutes to create!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons peri peri sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons of peri peri sauce, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 cups of cooked rice, salt and pepper to taste, and chopped cilantro for garnish.
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- While the skillet is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the peri peri sauce. Stir it around for about 1 minute to warm it up and release its flavors.
- Next, add the heavy cream to the skillet with the peri peri sauce. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- While the sauce is simmering, slice the rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, coating it well with the creamy peri peri sauce. Let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
- Meanwhile, if your rice is not already warm, you can heat it in a separate pot or microwave until hot.
- To serve, place a generous portion of cooked rice on each plate. Top with the creamy peri peri chicken and sauce.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch and additional flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious creamy peri peri chicken with rice!
Tips
- Choose Your Heat: Peri peri sauce can vary in heat levels. If you prefer a milder dish, start with less sauce and adjust to taste. You can always add more for an extra kick!
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This prevents overcooking and dryness.
- Let It Rest: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Creamy Sauce Consistency: If you like a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cream. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the chopped cilantro! It adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
- Make It a Meal: For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the creamy chicken.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld even more, making for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 438kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 135mg