Peri Peri Jollof Rice and Chicken is a bold and flavorful fusion dish that brings together West African jollof rice and the fiery peri peri flavors popular in Southern and East Africa. This dish is spicy, smoky, and deeply satisfying, making it perfect for family meals, gatherings, or special occasions.
If you love heat, rich tomato flavors, and tender chicken, this Jollof Rice and Chicken recipe is a must-try.
What Is Peri Peri Jollof ?
Peri Peri Jollof Rice and Chicken is a creative twist on classic jollof rice. The rice is cooked in a rich tomato base infused with peri peri spices, while the chicken is marinated and roasted or grilled until juicy and slightly charred.
This dish combines the comfort of jollof rice with the spicy kick of peri peri seasoning.
Ingredients for Peri Peri Rice and Chicken
For the Chicken
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1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
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2 tablespoons peri peri sauce or peri peri spice
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt to taste
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Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
For the Jollof Rice
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2 cups long-grain rice
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3 tomatoes, blended
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1 red bell pepper, blended
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1 small onion, blended
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 teaspoon peri peri spice (adjust to taste)
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1 teaspoon curry powder
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1 teaspoon thyme
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3–4 cups chicken stock or water
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Salt to taste
How to Make Peri Peri Jollof Rice and Chicken
Follow these steps to prepare this delicious dish :
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix peri peri sauce, oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and lemon juice. Rub the marinade all over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grill, roast, or pan-fry the chicken until fully cooked, golden, and slightly charred. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Jollof Base
Heat oil in a pot. Add tomato paste and fry for a few minutes. Pour in the blended tomato, pepper, and onion mixture. Cook until thick and reduced.
Step 4: Season the Rice
Add peri peri spice, curry powder, thyme, and salt. Stir well and let the sauce cook until oil rises to the top.
Step 5: Cook the Jollof Rice
Add washed rice and stir to coat with the sauce. Pour in stock or water, cover, and cook on low heat until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the peri peri jollof rice hot with the grilled peri peri chicken on top or on the side.
Tips for the Best Rice and Chicken
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Adjust peri peri spice to control heat level.
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Use chicken stock for richer flavor.
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Let the tomato sauce cook well to avoid acidity.
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Grilling the chicken adds extra smoky flavor.
What to Serve with
This dish pairs well with:
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Fresh salad or coleslaw
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Kachumbari
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Fried plantains
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Steamed vegetables
Why It Is So Popular
This dish is loved for its bold flavors and perfect balance of spice, richness, and comfort. The Rice and Chicken brings together different African culinary traditions into one exciting meal that’s both familiar and unique.
