Peri Peri Chicken Recipe

Introduction

There’s something irresistible about the zesty, fiery flavors of peri peri chicken that make it feel like an adventure with every bite. It’s like the chicken has been marinated in the sun, kissed by spices, and then grilled to perfection to give you a mouthwatering, crispy, juicy experience. If you’ve never tried peri peri chicken, trust me—you’re in for a treat!

Peri peri chicken is a popular dish that hails from Southern Africa, and it has made its way around the world thanks to its bold flavors and spicy punch. The peri peri sauce, which forms the backbone of this recipe, is a tangy blend of chili, garlic, lemon, and a variety of spices. It’s not just hot—it’s bursting with flavor, creating a deliciously well-balanced kick that’s perfect for spice lovers and food adventurers alike.

I first discovered peri peri chicken when I traveled to South Africa a few years ago, and I fell head over heels in love with it. The heat, the smokiness, and the incredible layers of flavors that the peri peri sauce brings to the chicken were unlike anything I’d ever tasted before. I knew right away that I had to recreate this at home, and since then, it’s become a family favorite. Whether it’s for a weekend BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, this peri peri chicken recipe never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Peri Peri Chicken Recipe:

I’ll be the first to admit—I’m a huge fan of spicy food, and when you combine spice with rich, smoky flavors, it’s a match made in culinary heaven. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this peri peri chicken recipe too:

Bursting with Flavor: The peri peri marinade is a symphony of flavors. The heat from the chili peppers is balanced by the tartness of the lemon, and the garlic adds that perfect savory kick. The blend of spices and the zing of vinegar make every bite unforgettable.

Perfectly Grilled: The marinade seeps into the chicken, infusing it with flavor, and when grilled, the chicken develops a crispy, golden skin that’s irresistible. Trust me, the aroma of the chicken on the grill alone will have you salivating.

Versatile: Peri peri chicken is incredibly versatile! You can serve it with almost anything—whether it’s a side of rice, a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or even a nice piece of naan or crusty bread. The possibilities are endless.

Simple to Make: The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. While the marinade may take a bit of time to work its magic, the actual cooking process is straightforward and doesn’t require any special techniques.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, grilling for family, or simply enjoying a spicy dinner for yourself, this peri peri chicken is a surefire way to impress anyone who loves bold flavors and a little heat.

Preparation Time and Servings:

Prep Time: 10 minutes (for the marinade)

Marinate Time: At least 1 hour (overnight is best for deeper flavor)

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40-45 minutes (plus marinate time)

Servings: 4 servings

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 40g

Carbs: 5g

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 850mg

Ingredients:

Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (you can also use breasts or drumsticks)

For the Peri Peri Marinade:

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons paprika

cumin

coriander

dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that extra smoky flavor)

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a subtle warmth)

2 tablespoons chili flakes or 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 small red bell pepper (optional, for extra sweetness)

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1st Step: Prepare the Marinade

The key to a mouthwatering peri peri chicken is the marinade. It’s where all the flavors come together and get absorbed into the chicken. In a bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. These ingredients will form the tangy, aromatic base of your marinade. Now, it’s time to add the spices! Stir in the paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, smoked paprika, cinnamon, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. If you want a slightly sweeter peri peri sauce, toss in the red bell pepper and blend everything together. You can use a blender or food processor for a smooth consistency, but it’s totally fine to leave it a little chunky. I like to keep mine on the coarser side, so there’s more texture to the marinade.

2nd Step: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the peri peri marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour. However, if you can plan ahead, let the chicken sit overnight for maximum flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! The longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor will penetrate.

3rd Step: Preheat the Grill

While your chicken marinates, it’s time to prep the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are nice and hot, and if you’re using a gas grill, preheat it for about 10 minutes. The high heat will help get that perfect crispy skin on the chicken.

4th Step: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t discard the marinade—keep it for basting later!). Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 6-8 minutes, until the skin becomes crispy and browned. Flip the chicken over and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is a good time to use it!

5th Step: Baste the Chicken (Optional)

For an extra layer of flavor, you can baste the chicken with the leftover peri peri marinade during the last few minutes of grilling. This helps to keep the chicken moist while adding a little more of that fiery sauce. But remember, always save some of the marinade for serving on the side!

6th Step: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is essential for locking in the juices and ensuring your chicken is tender and juicy.

How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken:

Now that your peri peri chicken is grilled to perfection, here are some fun and delicious ways to serve it:

With a Side of Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. The rice soaks up all the spicy sauce, making every bite irresistible.

As a Wrap: Slice the chicken into strips and serve it in a warm pita or flatbread with fresh veggies, hummus, and a drizzle of yogurt or tzatziki sauce.

With a Fresh Salad: Pair the spicy chicken with a cool and crisp salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and avocado, dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for a well-rounded, healthy meal.

Additional Tips for the Perfect Peri Peri Chicken:

Adjust the Spice Level: If you like things mild, you can reduce the amount of chili flakes or chili powder. If you like it fiery, feel free to add more heat! A few extra red chilies can kick things up a notch.

Don’t Skip the Marinating Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the better it tastes. If you can let it sit overnight, go for it!

Grill Marks Matter: For that smoky, slightly charred flavor, make sure the chicken gets a good sear on the grill.

Resting is Key: Always rest the chicken after grilling to ensure the juices stay locked in, resulting in moist and flavorful meat.

Make It Your Own: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding a splash of honey for a hint of sweetness or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.

Recipe Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or cauliflower steaks as a substitute for chicken. Marinate and grill them in the same way, and you’ll have a delicious, plant-based version of peri peri.

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to serve it with gluten-free sides if you need to cater to dietary restrictions.

Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add fresh bird’s eye chilies to the marinade or sprinkle chili powder on the chicken before grilling.

Serving Suggestions:

Side Dishes: Pair your peri peri chicken with roasted sweet potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a warm quinoa salad with lemon and herbs.

Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied red like Shiraz complements the spiciness of the chicken beautifully.

For Kids: Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes or buttery rice for a kid-friendly version that’s still packed with flavor.

Freezing and Storage:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain its juiciness.

Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven until fully warmed.

Special Equipment:

Grill: For the best results, use a charcoal or gas grill to get that smoky, charred flavor.

Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection with an instant-read thermometer.

Basting Brush: For evenly applying the marinade or sauce during grilling.

FAQ:

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? Yes! If you prefer boneless chicken, use boneless, skinless thighs or breasts. Just reduce the cooking time since boneless cuts cook faster.

Can I make this recipe in the oven? Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make the peri peri sauce ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

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Conclusion:

There you have it—the ultimate recipe for peri peri chicken that’s sure to make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a flavorful dinner, this recipe is your ticket to a spicy, satisfying meal. Don’t forget to share your peri peri chicken creations with me! Tag me on social media or leave a comment below—I can’t wait to see how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!