If you adore a little heat combined with smooth, luscious sauce, then this Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Imagine tender chicken breasts swimming in a spicy yet rich peri peri cream sauce that balances warmth and indulgence perfectly. This dish is bursting with flavor and comforting all at once, making it a wonderful meal to share with friends or to enjoy for a cozy night in. From the vibrant red bell pepper to the fragrant garlic and the unmistakable kick of peri peri sauce, each bite offers layers of taste that are downright irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Recipe so special. Each component contributes uniquely—whether it’s the tender chicken, aromatic spices, or silky cream—combining to create that unforgettable texture and flavor.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein base known for its quick cooking and juicy results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity richness for sautéing with a light, healthy touch.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Brings natural sweetness and depth when softened.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses unmistakable warmth and fragrance to the sauce.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a subtle crunch to balance the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons peri peri sauce (adjust to taste): The fiery soul of the dish with a tangy, smoky heat.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Enhances smokiness and adds a beautiful warm hue.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring all flavors perfectly in balance.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: A subtle kick to complement the peri peri heat.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh color and a herbal note to finish.
How to Make Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the innate flavor of the chicken and primes it for browning, which develops that beautiful golden crust that amps up both texture and taste.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Using olive oil is a wonderful choice as it handles moderate heat well and infuses a subtle fruitiness that pairs beautifully with our bold peri peri flavors.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Place your seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden exterior that locks in juices inside, resulting in tender, succulent meat. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—don’t worry, the magic is just beginning!
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. The residual chicken flavor in the pan will mingle with these aromatics, building the foundation for your creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add Color and Crunch
Next, toss in the chopped red bell pepper. Cook it for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until it softens slightly but still retains a mild snap. This ingredient is key for both the vibrant red color and a crisp texture contrast that lifts the entire dish.
Step 6: Spice Things Up
Stir in the peri peri sauce and paprika, ensuring the vegetables get drenched in that fiery, smoky goodness. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and harmonize with the sautéed veggies—the aroma alone will have your mouth watering.
Step 7: Make it Creamy
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer; this slow heat helps thicken the cream slightly while melding the rich, spicy flavors into one smooth, velvety sauce.
Step 8: Bring Back the Chicken
Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them comfortably into the creamy peri peri sauce. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 10 minutes, giving the chicken time to soak up all those incredible flavors and ensuring the sauce thickens perfectly around each piece.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of green and a hint of freshness. This finishing touch not only looks beautiful but also adds a subtle herbal brightness to balance the richness of the sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A final garnish of fresh parsley is the classic choice, but feel free to add a twist by sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the intense flavors and provide a delightful textural contrast.
Side Dishes
This creamy peri peri chicken shines when paired with fluffy basmati rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a light couscous salad. These sides soak up the luscious sauce so well and balance out the heat, making every bite a complete and satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the chicken sliced thinly atop a bed of roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus, drizzled generously with the creamy peri peri sauce. Or try it over buttered pasta for a quick weeknight twist that feels indulgent and fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Peri Peri Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as tasty, if not better.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but to maintain the cream sauce’s silky texture, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce and restore that signature creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy peri peri sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs generally need a bit longer to cook through.
How spicy is the peri peri sauce in this recipe?
Peri peri sauce varies by brand, but generally it offers a moderate heat with smoky, citrusy notes. You can always adjust the amount according to your heat preference—from mild to fiery.
Is heavy cream necessary for the sauce?
Heavy cream is key for that luxurious texture and rich flavor. However, you can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, which will add a lovely twist while keeping the sauce creamy.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients used here are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your peri peri sauce label to be sure it contains no hidden gluten additives.
What can I do with the sauce leftover?
The creamy peri peri sauce is delicious drizzled over roasted vegetables, mixed into pasta, or even used as a dipping sauce for grilled shrimp or breadsticks. It’s incredibly versatile and worth saving!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about making a Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Recipe that satisfies both your craving for spice and comfort. It invites you to slow down and savor every bite, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests. Give it a try—you’re going to love how effortlessly this dish transforms simple ingredients into a sensational celebration of flavor.
Print
Creamy Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Portuguese-inspired
Description
This Creamy Peri Peri Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts simmered in a rich, spicy peri peri cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines a smoky heat with smooth creaminess and fresh herbs for an incredible, ultimate meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons peri peri sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper, then set them aside to allow the flavors to settle.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, preparing it to sauté the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Then add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Add the Spices: Stir the peri peri sauce and paprika into the vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated, and cook for 1-2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Incorporate the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the spicy vegetable mixture. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer to thicken slightly.
- Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy peri peri sauce. Let everything simmer together for 5-10 minutes so the chicken can absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Once heated through, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Adjust peri peri sauce amount to control the spiciness.
- Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for quicker, even cooking.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
