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Easy Healthy Portuguese Chicken and Rice

A steaming plate of Easy Healthy Portuguese Chicken and Rice, where tender chicken melds with fragrant spices and vibrant vegetables, creating an inviting aroma that dances through the kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs juicy and flavorful
  • 3 cloves garlic minced or whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika works wonders
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh is best
For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup long-grain rice consider brown rice for extra health benefits
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 piece onion diced
  • 1 piece bell pepper diced
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 pieces lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Season 4 chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 7-8 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of jasmine rice and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir everything together.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
  7. In the last five minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas.
  8. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.