🍗 Portuguese Chicken Rice (Arroz de Frango) Recipe
Savor the taste of Portugal with this comforting Portuguese Chicken Rice (Arroz de Frango) — tender chicken simmered with rice, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. A one-pot family favorite bursting with rich Mediterranean flavor!
🧂 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or 2 chicken breasts, boiled & shredded)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
-
Cook the chicken (if raw):
Boil chicken in salted water until tender, then shred. Keep the stock for later. -
Sauté aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent. -
Add vegetables:
Stir in bell pepper, tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. -
Season and add chicken:
Add paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in shredded chicken to coat with spices. -
Cook the rice:
Add rice and pour in chicken stock. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. -
Simmer:
Cover and cook on low heat for 15–18 minutes, until the rice absorbs all the liquid. -
Finish and serve:
Fluff the rice, sprinkle with parsley, and serve warm with lemon wedges.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main course with Portuguese salad or grilled vegetables.
- Pair with piri-piri sauce for extra spice.
- Great for family dinners or weekend gatherings.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 1 month — reheat with a splash of water.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
❓ FAQs
Q1. What is Arroz de Frango?
It’s a traditional Portuguese chicken rice dish, combining shredded chicken, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs in one pot.
Q2. Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a perfect recipe for using up roast or grilled chicken.
Q3. Can I add vegetables?
Yes, peas, carrots, or corn add color and nutrition.
Q4. What type of rice is best?
Long-grain rice or carolino rice works best for a fluffy texture.
Q5. Is this similar to Spanish Arroz con Pollo?
Yes, but Portuguese Arroz de Frango tends to be saucier and more herb-based.
🍴 Similar Recipes :
- Arroz de Marisco – Portuguese seafood rice bursting with ocean flavor.
- Cataplana de Marisco – Traditional Portuguese seafood stew.
- Piri Piri Chicken – Spicy grilled chicken with tangy Portuguese sauce.
- Caldo Verde – Portuguese kale soup with chouriço.
- Spanish Arroz con Pollo – Flavor-packed chicken and rice with paprika.

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