Craving something creamy, spicy, and totally addictive? Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice is the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast. This delightful recipe features succulent chicken breasts seared to perfection and coated in a rich garlic-infused peri-peri sauce. Served over fluffy garlic rice, this dish offers an irresistible combination of flavors that will please any palate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy evenings.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of peri-peri sauce and garlic creates a bold flavor profile that makes every bite unforgettable.
- Versatile Meal Option: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings; this recipe suits various occasions.
- Comfort Food: The creamy sauce paired with fluffy rice delivers the ultimate comfort food experience that warms the soul.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal cooking tools required, cleaning up after your meal is a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools handy. This will streamline your preparation and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and simmering sauces without overcrowding.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, enhancing your meal prep efficiency.

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
- Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning into the chicken to coat it evenly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken stock while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream, peri-peri sauce, and lemon juice.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Simmer the Chicken
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
- Lower heat and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165F/74C).
Step 6: Serve
- Plate cooked rice on each serving dish.
- Spoon creamy peri-peri chicken on top of each portion.
- 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
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How to Serve Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice
This creamy peri-peri chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can elevate your dining experience by pairing it with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the spice of the peri-peri sauce.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.
Pair with a Refreshing Salad
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad can balance the heat of the dish, making each bite refreshing.
- Tomato and Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes mix well with the bold flavors of peri-peri chicken.
Add a Flavorful Sauce
- Spicy Mayo: Drizzle spicy mayo over the chicken for an extra kick and creaminess.
- Garlic Aioli: A rich garlic aioli enhances the garlic flavor in both the chicken and rice.
How to Perfect Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice
To truly master this dish, keep these helpful tips in mind. They will ensure that your creamy peri-peri chicken turns out perfectly every time.
- Bold Seasoning: Season your chicken generously before cooking. This enhances flavor and helps create a delicious crust when seared.
- Control Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of peri-peri sauce based on your spice tolerance. You can start with less and add more to taste.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a big difference in flavor compared to dried alternatives.
- Simmer Gently: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps it thicken without burning, keeping it rich and creamy.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice
Complement your creamy peri-peri chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall taste profile.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while providing a subtle crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini roasted with olive oil enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw offers a sweet, tangy contrast to the spicy chicken, balancing flavors nicely.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn drizzled with lime juice adds sweetness to each bite.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides a healthy, protein-packed option alongside the rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you rub the spices into the chicken for an even coat.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed for a perfect golden crust.
- Not scraping the pan: Forgetting to scrape up browned bits while making the sauce can mean missing out on rich flavor. Always deglaze the pan for a deeper taste.
- Rushing the simmering process: Simmering too quickly might result in an unevenly cooked chicken. Keep it low and slow for tender results.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken too soon after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest briefly before serving for juicier meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice
- Portion out servings in freezer-safe containers.
- Label with date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken and rice in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary, until warmed thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice:
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
You can definitely substitute turkey or beef for chicken in this recipe while keeping the cooking times similar.
How spicy is Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice?
The level of spiciness depends on your peri-peri sauce choice. For milder flavors, opt for less spicy sauces or adjust the amount used.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the rice ahead; just combine and reheat when ready to serve.
What sides pair well with Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice?
This dish pairs nicely with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added crunch and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different proteins or spice levels. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy this creamy, comforting meal!

Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice
Craving a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying? Creamy Peri-Peri Chicken Over Garlic Rice is the answer! This delectable recipe features tender chicken breasts seared to a golden perfection, drenched in a savory garlic-infused peri-peri sauce. Served over fluffy garlic rice, it offers a delightful fusion of flavors that’s bound to impress family and friends. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend feasts, this dish promises comfort and taste in every bite.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp peri-peri sauce
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Season chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft (2-3 minutes).
- Deglaze with chicken stock, then stir in heavy cream, peri-peri sauce, and lemon juice. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to skillet; simmer for 8-10 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Serve over cooked rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg