Peri Peri chicken, also known as piri piri or pili pili chicken, is a vibrant dish that brings a kick of heat and a burst of flavor to your dining table. Originating from the Portuguese influence in Africa, this recipe features a zesty marinade with a blend of spices that make the chicken juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly spicy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this detailed recipe will guide you through making the perfect Peri Peri chicken.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons peri peri seasoning (or a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Ziploc bag or shallow dish
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, peri peri seasoning, dried oregano, ground cumin, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
- Marinate: Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor. If marinating overnight, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Step 3: Prepare for Cooking
- Preheat Oven or Grill: If using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, prepare your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Option 1: Baking
- Arrange Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up. Leave some space between the pieces for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. If you want extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
Option 2: Grilling
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken pieces on the preheated grill. Grill for 25-35 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is well charred and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Rest Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Garnish: Garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Side Suggestions
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
- Rice or Couscous: Pair with a side of fluffy rice or couscous to complement the spicy flavors.
- Salad: A fresh salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the heat of the chicken.
Tips and Tricks
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of peri peri seasoning and chili flakes. Conversely, add extra for a spicier kick.
- Cooking Methods: You can also cook the chicken in an air fryer for a quicker and even crispier option. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Marinade Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices like thyme, coriander, or cayenne pepper to tailor the flavor to your preference.
Conclusion
This Peri Peri chicken recipe offers a deliciously spicy and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. With a blend of aromatic spices and a juicy, tender texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly marinated and cooked chicken that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade, spicy treat!