Peri peri chicken is a popular dish that originated in Portugal and has gained worldwide popularity.
Peri peri is a chili pepper used to make the sauce. It is a small, fiery pepper commonly found in Africa and Portugal. The sauce is made by blending peri-peri peppers with other ingredients such as garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
Chicken is marinated in the sauce for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and infuse it with the spicy, tangy taste of the sauce. The chicken is then grilled, roasted, or baked.
Peri peri chicken can be served in many different ways. It is often served with rice or potatoes and a side of vegetables.
One of the great things about peri-peri chicken is that it can be customized to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more peri-peri peppers to the sauce. If you prefer it milder, you can use fewer peppers or remove the seeds and membranes, which are the hottest parts of the pepper.
Peri peri chicken is not only delicious but also healthy. It is high in protein and low in fat.
In conclusion, peri peri chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that is loved by people all over the world. Its unique flavor and spicy kick make it a favorite among those who enjoy bold and flavorful food. Whether you are grilling it up for a summer BBQ or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner.
Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Africa and Portugal.
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!
