Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering culinary adventure that combines the legendary Nandos peri peri heat with creamy, comforting pasta! This isn't just another chicken recipe - it's a flavor explosion that will transport your senses straight to Portugal with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken swimming in spicy peri peri sauce, nestled among perfectly cooked pasta, all prepared effortlessly in your slow cooker. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that promises restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 1 cup Nandos peri peri sauce
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the bell pepper. Set them aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the Nandos peri peri sauce. Ensure the chicken is well coated. For best results, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time.
- Once the chicken is marinated, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- In the slow cooker, layer the sautéed onions and garlic at the bottom. Then, add the sliced bell pepper on top.
- Next, place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the peri peri sauce will add some heat and flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This will allow the chicken to become tender and infuse the flavors throughout the dish.
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. When the chicken is done cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, along with the cooked pasta. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the pasta is coated with the peri peri sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
- Let the mixture sit in the slow cooker for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the Nandos peri peri chicken pasta warm, garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For maximum flavor, let your chicken marinate in the peri peri sauce for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if possible.
- Customize Your Heat: Nandos sauces come in different spice levels. Choose mild, medium, or hot depending on your heat tolerance.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the slow-cooked chicken.
- Make It Creamy: For an extra luxurious touch, stir in a splash of cream or sprinkle some grated parmesan just before serving.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch leftovers or preparing ahead of time.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the final dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 358kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
