Peri Peri Chicken

If you’re ready to spice things up, then look no further than this Peri Peri Chicken! Juicy, tender chicken marinated in a flavorful, zesty sauce made with fiery peri peri peppers, garlic, and a perfect mix of spices. This dish brings all the heat with a dash of smoky goodness, balanced by a tangy citrus kick. Whether you’re grilling it, roasting it, or cooking it on the stovetop, this Peri Peri Chicken will definitely steal the show and have your taste buds dancing with joy. Trust me, it’s a must-try if you love a bit of heat!

Why You’ll Love Peri Peri Chicken

This chicken is bursting with bold flavors, and here’s why it’s such a winner:

• Bold & Flavorful: The peri peri marinade is the star, delivering heat, citrus, and a perfect blend of spices that really bring the chicken to life.
• Customizable Spice Level: You control how spicy it gets! Add more or less chili depending on your heat tolerance.
• Perfectly Juicy: The marinade ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender, with a crispy exterior when cooked just right.
• Versatile: Whether you grill, roast, or pan-fry, this recipe is flexible for any cooking method you prefer.
• Quick & Easy: It only takes a bit of time to marinate, and then the cooking is easy-peasy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend grilling.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your Peri Peri Chicken:

• Chicken (Whole or Pieces): You can go with chicken breasts, thighs, or a whole chicken. Choose what you prefer!
• Peri Peri Peppers (or Chili Flakes): The key ingredient for that fiery heat. If you can’t find peri peri peppers, substitute with other hot chili peppers or chili flakes.
• Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor that balances out the heat.
• Lemon Juice: The citrusy zing that brings everything together.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky touch to the marinade.
• Olive Oil: To help bind the marinade and ensure the chicken stays juicy.
• Cumin & Oregano: These spices add depth and earthiness to the flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: To season the chicken and enhance the flavors.
• Honey (optional): A small drizzle of honey can add a bit of sweetness to balance the heat.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh herbs to finish it off.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive into this flavorful dish? Let’s get cooking:

Prepare the Marinade

Start by making the marinade. In a blender or food processor, combine the peri peri peppers (or chili flakes), garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. If you like it a little sweeter, add a drizzle of honey. Blend everything until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken (whether whole or in pieces) in a large bowl or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated well. For best results, let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but for maximum flavor, leave it for 4-6 hours (or even overnight if you have the time).

Cook the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, you can either grill, roast, or pan-fry it—your choice!

• Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side (for pieces) or 25-30 minutes for a whole chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred on the outside.
• Roasting: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes (for pieces), or 45-60 minutes for a whole chicken, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until golden and cooked through.

Garnish & Serve

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for a serving of Peri Peri Chicken:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 320 calories
• Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Vitamin A: 10%
• Vitamin C: 25%
• Calcium: 3%
• Iron: 12%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour (or up to 6 hours for more flavor)
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (depending on cooking method)
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken

This flavorful chicken can be served with a variety of delicious sides:

• Rice or Couscous: Pair it with a side of fluffy rice or couscous to soak up any extra marinade.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the chicken perfectly.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the spicy chicken.
• Flatbread or Naan: Perfect for dipping into the extra sauce or enjoying with the chicken.
• Fries: For a fun and indulgent twist, serve it with crispy fries or sweet potato fries.

Additional Tips

• Make it Spicier: If you love extra heat, add more peri peri peppers or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Grill Marks: For that authentic grilled flavor, ensure your grill is preheated and oiled to prevent sticking, and give your chicken a little char for extra flavor.
• Use Leftovers: Leftover peri peri chicken can be shredded and added to wraps, salads, or even tacos for a tasty second meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?

A1: Yes, boneless chicken breasts will work great. Just adjust the cooking time, as they’ll cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A2: Yes! The marinade can be prepared in advance, and the chicken can marinate overnight for even more flavor. You can also cook the chicken ahead of time and reheat it later.

Q3: Can I make the marinade without peri peri peppers?

A3: Absolutely! You can substitute peri peri peppers with red chili flakes, serrano peppers, or any other hot peppers you prefer. Adjust the quantity to your spice level.

Q4: Can I cook this in the oven?

A4: Yes, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes (for pieces) or 45-60 minutes for a whole chicken, until fully cooked.

Q5: What if I don’t have a grill?

A5: No worries! You can easily cook the chicken on a stovetop in a pan or roast it in the oven.

Q6: How can I make this dish milder?

A6: To reduce the heat, use fewer peri peri peppers or chili flakes in the marinade, or add a touch of honey to balance out the spice.

Q7: Can I freeze the chicken after marinating?

A7: Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before cooking.

Q8: How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

A8: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). The juices should run clear, not pink.

Q9: Can I use other cuts of chicken?

A9: Definitely! This recipe works with any cut of chicken, including wings, thighs, or drumsticks.

Q10: What sides pair well with Peri Peri Chicken?

A10: Sides like couscous, roasted vegetables, fries, or a fresh salad all pair wonderfully with this spicy chicken.

Conclusion

Peri Peri Chicken brings bold, vibrant flavors and just the right amount of heat to any meal. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or pan-frying, the marinade locks in all the zesty, spicy goodness that makes each bite irresistible. With its customizable spice level and versatility, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill (or oven), and get ready for a seriously flavorful meal that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

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