Peri peri chicken is a fiery feast that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite! This succulent dish features tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of spices, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice, creating a mouthwatering explosion of flavor. Grilled to perfection, the chicken boasts a crispy exterior while remaining juicy and flavorful inside. Serve it with a side of cooling yogurt sauce and fresh veggies for a delightful contrast. Get ready to spice up your dinner table with this irresistible recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s bursting with flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Customizable spice levels to suit your personal preference.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
peri peri chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect the following ingredients: chicken pieces, peri peri sauce, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is fresh and ready to go!
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with peri peri sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer for more flavor!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a nice sear and juicy chicken.
- If grilling, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. If using the oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe and perfectly cooked!
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even more delicious!
- Serve your spicy peri peri chicken with your favorite sides, like rice, salad, or grilled veggies. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the compliments from your guests!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Portuguese/African |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With rice or salad |
Ingredients
- Chicken – a tender protein that absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Peri Peri Sauce – the star of the dish, bringing heat and zest.
- Garlic – adds aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Lemon Juice – brightens the dish and balances the spice.
- Olive Oil – helps in marinating and keeps the chicken moist.
- Paprika – adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- Salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Pepper – adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Honey – balances the heat with a hint of sweetness.
- Fresh Herbs – like parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to spice things up with this delicious peri peri chicken recipe! Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect the following ingredients: chicken pieces, peri peri sauce, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is fresh and ready to go!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with peri peri sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer for more flavor!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a nice sear and juicy chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
If grilling, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. If using the oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe and perfectly cooked!
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even more delicious!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your spicy peri peri chicken with your favorite sides, like rice, salad, or grilled veggies. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the compliments from your guests!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
•Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a vibrant garnish.
•Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder to the marinade.
•Grill on medium-high heat for that perfect char and juicy interior.
•Serve with a cooling side like yogurt sauce to balance the heat.
How to Serve
Enjoy your peri peri chicken with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Serve it hot off the grill with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a cool contrast.
- Offer fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the spicy sauce.
- Accompany with warm pita bread or naan for a fun twist.
- Top with a dollop of creamy yogurt or tzatziki for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
- For a hearty meal, add roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your peri peri chicken fresh:
- Let it cool to room temperature.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, follow these steps:
- Cool the chicken completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To enjoy your peri peri chicken again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Use a microwave for quick reheating, but cover to retain moisture.
FAQs
What is peri peri chicken?
Peri peri chicken is a flavorful dish made with chicken marinated in a spicy peri peri sauce, which typically includes ingredients like chili peppers, garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s known for its fiery kick and is popular in many cuisines, especially in Portuguese and African cooking.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the peri peri chicken?
Absolutely! You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of peri peri sauce or using milder chili peppers. If you prefer a less spicy version, consider adding more lemon juice or yogurt to balance the heat.
What can I serve with peri peri chicken?
Peri peri chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also add some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your very own peri peri chicken masterpiece! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings a burst of flavor and warmth to your table. So gather your loved ones, savor every spicy bite, and relish the joy of cooking something so simple yet so rewarding. Dive in, enjoy, and let the delicious memories begin!
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