Peri Peri Chicken

Looking for a new, exciting, and flavorful recipe that is easy to prepare? We've got you covered because today we have an authentic African peri-peri chicken recipe that is packed with flavor and can be served with numerous different side dishes. 

From the peppers to the various spices used, this African dish is sure to delight even the pickiest of palates.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

For starters, you will love how easy this peri-peri chicken recipe is to follow. It is really just as simple as tossing some ingredients into a food processor and then coating your chicken with it. The key to getting this simple peri-peri chicken right lies in the marinating time. The longer you marinate this dish, the better it tastes.

Additionally, you will love how easy this recipe is to adjust to your personal taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you want to replace the chicken with a different kind of protein or simply change up the spices used in the marinade to give your homemade peri-peri chicken more of a kick, this recipe makes it easy for you to make it to your liking.

Furthermore, you will love how versatile this authentic peri-peri chicken can be. Eat it by itself as a snack, or enjoy it as part of a complete and hearty meal by pairing it with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. You can even use the leftovers to make a variety of other chicken dishes. There are no limits to how you can serve this spicy peri-peri chicken.

Ingredients

Marinade:

Peri-peri sauce is a vibrant and fiery condiment known for its bold flavors. The key ingredients typically include African bird's eye chili peppers, also known as peri-peri peppers, which lend the sauce its signature heat. Additionally, garlic, lemon juice, and vinegar contribute acidity and brightness, while herbs and spices like paprika, oregano, and bay leaves add depth and complexity to the sauce. Olive oil is often used as a base to create a smooth and luscious texture, and salt enhances the overall seasoning. Some variations may also incorporate ingredients like onion, ginger, or citrus zest to further elevate the flavor profile.

Olive Oil:

Olive oil is a fundamental component in peri-peri sauce because its smooth and silky texture helps to emulsify the ingredients, creating a cohesive and well-balanced sauce. While olive oil is the traditional and preferred choice for peri-peri sauce due to its flavor and texture, there are alternative oils that can be used depending on personal preference and dietary restrictions. Canola, vegetable, avocado, sunflower, and grapeseed oils can be used for their mild flavors and high smoke points.

Chicken:

The best cuts of chicken for peri-peri chicken are typically bone-in, skin-on pieces such as thighs and drumsticks. These cuts are ideal because they retain moisture and flavor during cooking, resulting in succulent and tender meat. When selecting chicken for this recipe, opt for fresh, high-quality cuts with vibrant color and firm texture. Ensure that the chicken is properly cleaned and trimmed of excess fat or skin before marinating to enhance flavor absorption. To prepare the chicken, make shallow cuts or score the meat to allow the peri-peri sauce to penetrate deeper. For those seeking alternatives to chicken, peri-peri sauce can also be used to flavor other proteins such as shrimp, pork, or tofu.

How to Make Peri Peri Chicken

Step One: 

Add the garlic, onion, bell pepper, mixed spices, salt, pepper, peri-peri sauce, olive oil, and lime juice to a food processor and grind into a paste.

Step Two: 

Coat the chicken evenly in your peri-peri paste.

Step Three: 

Put the chicken in the fridge to marinate for 2 hours.

Step Four:

Place the marinated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step Five: 

Bake for 40 minutes at 350F.

Step Six: 

Serve with fresh chopped herbs, and enjoy!

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F before removing it from the oven. This ensures that the chicken is cooked through while remaining tender and juicy.
• Allow the peri-peri chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

What to Serve With Peri Peri Chicken

When serving peri-peri chicken, consider complementing its bold and spicy flavors with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Start by pairing it with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious peri-peri sauce. Roasted or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, or corn on the cob add a vibrant and nutritious touch to the meal. If you're craving something heartier, consider serving peri-peri chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or flavorful couscous.

FAQs

Is peri-peri chicken gluten-free?

Yes, peri-peri chicken can be gluten-free if the peri-peri sauce and any other ingredients used in the recipe are gluten-free. Always check the labels of pre-packaged ingredients to ensure they do not contain gluten, or use homemade versions to guarantee gluten-free status.

Can I grill or pan-fry peri-peri chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can grill or pan-fry peri-peri chicken instead of grilling it. Simply marinate the chicken in peri-peri sauce, then cook it on a preheated grill or in a hot skillet on the stovetop. Adjust cooking time and temperature accordingly until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° for safe consumption

How long can leftover peri peri chicken be kept fresh?

Leftover peri-peri chicken can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. If you don't plan to consume the leftovers within this timeframe, you can freeze them for up to 3 months for later consumption.

More Chicken Recipes

If you enjoy how chicken can act as a blank canvas in the kitchen, then you are going to love this collection of chicken recipes to inspire your next culinary creation.

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