Peri Peri Chicken is a dish that brings the heat, flavor, and a touch of exotic flair to your dining table. Originating from Africa, this tantalizing chicken dish has made its way around the world, gathering a dedicated fan base. The combination of spices, herbs, and zesty flavors makes it a favorite for both home cooks and restaurant lovers alike.
Why We Love This Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Peri Peri Chicken recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it grilled or baked, making it perfect for any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a weekend barbecue with friends. The marinade is a delightful blend of flavors that enhances the natural taste of the chicken, while the combination of spices gives it an irresistible allure.
Moreover, this dish caters to various dietary preferences, as it’s packed with protein and can be paired with a variety of sides, making it a wholesome choice. You’ll also appreciate how simple and quick the recipe is, allowing you to serve a fantastic meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Ingredients for Peri Peri Chicken
To create the perfect Peri Peri Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Peri Peri Chicken
Making Peri Peri Chicken is both fun and straightforward. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your chicken is bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.
Prepare the Marinade: Start by getting out your food processor. To it, add the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, finely chopped red chili, brown sugar, dried oregano, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Blend these ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken thighs in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if you can.
Prepare the Grill or Oven: If you’re grilling the chicken, grease a grill pan or preheat your charcoal grill to medium heat. Grilling gives the chicken a delicious smoky flavor. Alternatively, if you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Chicken: Once your grill or oven is ready, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. If grilling, place the chicken on the grill and cook it for about 12 minutes, turning regularly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For oven cooking, lay the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, checking for the same internal temperature.
Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken
Serving Peri Peri Chicken can be just as exciting as making it! You have numerous options when it comes to presentation and sides. Here are some ideas to help you plan a delightful meal:
On a Platter: Serve the grilled or baked chicken thighs on a large platter, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
With Sides: Pair your chicken with sides like fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. These sides complement the spiciness of the chicken and create a balanced plate.
Dipping Sauce: Consider preparing a cooling dip, such as yogurt sauce or a creamy avocado dip, to offset the heat. This can enhance the overall experience and provide a refreshing contrast.
Expert Tips for Perfect Peri Peri Chicken
For the best Peri Peri Chicken, keeping a few expert tips in mind can make a significant difference in flavor and texture:
Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you have the time, aim for an overnight marination. It infuses the chicken with the bold Peri Peri flavor.
Cooking Temperature: Whether grilling or baking, ensuring that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is crucial for food safety. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer milder flavors, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or the red chili in the marinade. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more!
Allow Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step prevents the juices from running out and keeps the meat tender.
How to Store Peri Peri Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is great, let’s be honest!), storing your Peri Peri Chicken properly ensures it remains delicious for future meals:
Refrigerate: Place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Make sure it’s cooled down, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will maintain its quality for about 3-4 months in the freezer.
Reheat: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until heated through.
Variations of Peri Peri Chicken
Experimenting with your Peri Peri Chicken can lead to delightful new flavors and presentations. Here are a few variations to consider:
Spicy Peri Peri Chicken Wings: Instead of using thighs, try using chicken wings. They can be marinated and cooked in the same manner, giving you a finger-licking appetizer that’s perfect for parties.
Vegetarian Peri Peri Option: For a meat-free version, substitute the chicken with large pieces of cauliflower or tofu. Marinate and cook them similarly, providing a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
Peri Peri Chicken Salad: After cooking, slice the chicken and toss it in a salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty dressing for a fresh take on your meal.
Spicy Peri Peri Pasta: Use the same marinade to flavor chicken and toss it with pasta and your favorite vegetables. This adds an Italian twist to the classic Peri Peri concept.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peri Peri Chicken?
Peri Peri Chicken is a spicy chicken dish marinated in a blend of chili, spices, and lime or lemon juice. Originating from Africa, it has become loved worldwide for its bold flavors.
How spicy is Peri Peri Chicken?
The spiciness of Peri Peri Chicken can vary based on the type and amount of chili used in the marinade. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your preference by increasing or decreasing the chili and cayenne pepper.
How long should I marinate Peri Peri Chicken?
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to marinate Peri Peri Chicken for at least 10 minutes. However, marinating overnight will infuse deeper flavors and make it even more delicious.
Can I make Peri Peri Chicken in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I serve with Peri Peri Chicken?
Peri Peri Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, salads, rice, or even bread. The choice is yours based on your taste preference.
Peri Peri Chicken
Equipment
- Food Processor
- Grill or Oven
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 6 pieces bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- ½ lemon juiced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small red chili finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. sweet paprika
- ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp. salt
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped red chili, brown sugar, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes, or preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- For grilling, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 12 minutes, turning regularly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For baking, lay the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, checking for the same internal temperature.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.
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