Peri Peri Chicken: Spicy, Smoky, and Irresistible
Peri Peri Chicken, a dish with a rich history, is a fiery and flavorful delight beloved worldwide. Its bold spice blend and irresistible smoky aroma have their roots in Southern Africa and were later popularized by Portuguese cuisine. The dish’s marinade, rich in Peri Peri sauce—a tangy, spicy mix of chilies, garlic, and lemon-makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The Peri Peri marinade infuses the chicken with smoky, tangy, and spicy notes.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill, roast, or cook in a skillet—it’s delicious.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prepping.
Pro Tips for Perfect Peri Peri Chicken
- Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken retains moisture and delivers the best flavor.
- Control the Heat: Use mild chilies for a less spicy marinade, or add more bird’s eye chilies for extra heat.
- Don’t Skip Marination: Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To enjoy a delicious and safe meal, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or a skillet over low heat until warmed.
Freezing:
- You can freeze marinated raw chicken for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
FAQs About Peri Peri Chicken
1. Can I use a whole chicken?
Yes! You can use a whole chicken for your Peri Peri Chicken. To ensure even cooking, consider using the ‘Spatchcock’ method, which involves removing the backbone and flattening the chicken. This method allows the chicken to cook more evenly and quickly, whether roasting or grilling. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Is Peri Peri Chicken very spicy?
The heat level depends on the chilies used. You can adjust the spice level using milder chilies or omitting the seeds.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, as written.
4. Can I use store-bought Peri Peri sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought sauce works well if you’re short on time.
5. What other proteins can I use?
For a different twist, try this marinade with shrimp, pork chops, or tofu.
Why This Recipe Works
Combining a bold, spicy marinade and juicy, perfectly cooked chicken makes this dish a guaranteed hit. The balance of heat, tanginess, and smokiness creates layers of flavor that are both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether you’re grilling for a BBQ or roasting for a cozy dinner, Peri Peri Chicken is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Conclusion
Peri Peri Chicken is a fantastic dish that’s super easy to make and oh-so-delicious! Its spicy, zesty flavors and tender, juicy chicken are perfect for any gathering. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll be in for a treat—everyone will come back for seconds. Give it a try today and bring the vibrant taste of Peri Peri to your table—you won’t regret it!
Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken legs quarters
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 medium diced red pepper
- 1 medium diced onion
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 3-4 Africa bird's eye chili
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp oregano
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the sauce heat, sourness, saltiness, and tanginess. Add more salt, chili, or vinegar for tangier and lemon juice for more sourness.
- Pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel and slash each piece of the chicken diagonally a few times.
- Add half the sauce to the chicken, and use your hands to rub the marinade into each piece.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 -6 hours or overnight. The longer it marinades better it tastes.
- Preheat oven to 350° degrees
- Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet shaking off the excess marinade without overcrowding.
- Bake the chicken for 35 to 40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 180° F
- Brush the chicken with peri peri sauce about 10 minutes before the chicken is ready.
- Serve the peri-peri chicken with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal!