Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

Craving something creamy, spicy, and totally addictive? Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice is the perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken seared to golden perfection with a rich, velvety garlic sauce, all served over fluffy garlic rice. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor explosion: The combination of peri-peri sauce and garlic creates a delightful medley of flavors that will tantalize your palate.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Comfort food classic: Creamy chicken over rice is the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies hunger.
• Versatile dish: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level.
• Perfect for meal prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it great for lunches throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious creamy peri-peri chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure that everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to sear the chicken evenly without crowding.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp peri-peri sauce
• 1 tsp lemon juice

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning into the chicken to coat it evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Pour in chicken stock while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Stir in heavy cream, peri-peri sauce, and lemon juice.
3. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken

1. Return seared chicken to the skillet, coating it in sauce.
2. Lower heat and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate cooked rice on each dish.
2. Spoon creamy peri-peri chicken on top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

How to Serve Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

Serving creamy peri-peri chicken over garlic rice is an experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Adding grilled asparagus gives a nice crunch and fresh flavor to your plate.
• Roasted Broccoli: The slightly charred taste of roasted broccoli pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the dish.

Include a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad: This cool salad adds brightness and balances the heat from the peri-peri sauce.

Top with Extra Garnish

• Chopped Cilantro or Basil: Fresh herbs on top will enhance the dish’s aroma and provide an extra burst of flavor.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and a smooth texture that complements the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail and a few helpful techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your creamy peri-peri chicken is outstanding.

• Seasoning: Make sure to season the chicken thoroughly before cooking. This enhances the flavor from the inside out.
• Control Heat: Searing at medium-high heat ensures a beautiful golden crust without drying out the chicken.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and quality peri-peri sauce for better depth of flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the chicken to simmer gently in the sauce helps it absorb flavors while remaining juicy.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary for perfect balance.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

Pairing sides with creamy peri-peri chicken can elevate your dinner experience even further. Here are some fantastic side dishes that go well with this spicy delight.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy contrast that complements the creaminess of the chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat alongside your meal.
4. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a delightful sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the dish.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and pair beautifully with both garlic rice and peri-peri flavors.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies can enhance nutrition while complementing your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F/74C for perfect juiciness.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can leave it bland. Don’t skip the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for flavor.
• Not scraping the skillet: Leaving browned bits in the pan after searing can miss out on great flavor. Always scrape these bits while making the sauce.
• Using low-quality cream: Using subpar heavy cream can impact the sauce’s creaminess. Choose a high-fat content cream for best results.
• Rushing the simmering process: Simmering too quickly can separate the sauce. Allow it to simmer gently for a richer flavor and better consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you might have about Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice:

Can I use other types of rice with this recipe?

Yes! While white rice is traditional, you can use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

How spicy is Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice?

The spiciness depends on your peri-peri sauce. Start with a mild version if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust according to your taste.

What can I serve with Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize the creamy sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or substitute part of the cream with Greek yogurt for tanginess.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it nearly endlessly by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level. This comforting dish is sure to satisfy cravings while being simple enough for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try today!