Nando’s Takeaway

Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy chicken thigh, marinated to perfection with a medley of spices, drizzled with tangy peri-peri sauce, all wrapped snugly in warm pita bread. The aroma of roasted chicken permeates the air, inviting you closer with its enticing scent. This Nando’s-inspired takeaway experience is not just a meal; it’s an event that tantalizes the senses, especially when enjoyed in the cozy company of family and friends. Whether you’re whipping up a quick meal on a busy weekday or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe delivers satisfying flavors and heartwarming nostalgia.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4 people
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 2g

Nutrition information sourced from the USDA FoodData Central and the Mayo Clinic.

Why Make This Recipe

This Nando’s takeaway is more than just a feast; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures! The recipe balances the smokiness of paprika, the warmth of garlic, and the punch of cayenne, creating a marinade that elevates the humble chicken thigh into a flavor-packed delight. Perfect for quick lunches and lively dinners alike, it’s flexible enough to adjust to any occasion, marrying convenience with taste.

How to Make Nando’s Takeaway

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pita bread
• Lettuce (for serving)
• Tomato (for serving)
• Cucumber (for serving)
• Peri-Peri sauce (for serving)

Optional ingredient substitutions: Use low-sodium soy sauce instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile or substitute fresh herbs for a more aromatic touch.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade. For best results, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor).
4. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).
6. While the chicken is roasting, prepare a fresh salad using washed and chopped lettuce, sliced tomato, and cucumber.
7. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips.
8. Serve the chicken in warm pita bread filled with salad and a generous drizzle of peri-peri sauce.

Cooking Tips

• To avoid overmixing, gently fold the marinade ingredients until combined.
• Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness to ensure juicy, tender chicken.

How to Serve

Serve your Nando’s takeaway warm, loaded with delicious chicken, crisp salad, and spicy peri-peri sauce. Pair it with a refreshing side of yogurt or a light beverage for a complete meal. Don’t forget to warm your pita bread slightly to enhance the texture and flavor!

How to Store

• Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 hours.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. They will keep fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a sealed, freezer-safe container.

Expert Tips

• For the best results, opt for high-quality chicken thighs—bone-in and skin-on varieties can add richness, but you can use boneless if you prefer.
• Consider adjusting the cayenne pepper level based on your spice tolerance—start small if you’re unsure!

Delicious Variations

• Vegan Version: Swap chicken for marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms, and adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free pita bread or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• Extra Flavor: Add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a touch of sweetness that balances the spices.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating for best results.

2. What can I substitute for pita bread?
   Tortillas or lettuce wraps work great as alternatives!

3. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
   Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and letting the chicken rest before slicing.

4. Can I marinate the chicken too long?
   Marinating for longer than 24 hours can sometimes lead to a mushy texture. Up to overnight is ideal.

5. What to do with leftovers?
   Leftover chicken is delicious in salads, wraps, or as a topping for rice bowls.

Conclusion

This Nando’s takeaway recipe brings the heat and flavor of your favorite restaurant right to your home. It’s easy to make, loaded with enticing aromas, and perfect for a cozy night in or lively family dinner. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out; let it inspire culinary creativity in your kitchen! Please share your feedback or any delightful variations you make—happy cooking!

Nando’s Takeaway

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• Author: recipechangegmail-com
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A deliciously marinated chicken thigh dish inspired by Nando’s, served in warm pita with fresh salad and tangy peri-peri sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pita bread
• Lettuce (for serving)
• Tomato (for serving)
• Cucumber (for serving)
• Peri-Peri sauce (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade. For best results, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor).
4. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).
6. While the chicken is roasting, prepare a fresh salad using washed and chopped lettuce, sliced tomato, and cucumber.
7. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips.
8. Serve the chicken in warm pita bread filled with salad and a generous drizzle of peri-peri sauce.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality chicken thighs; adjust cayenne level to taste.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: African

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg