If you’re craving a dish packed with fiery flavor, fragrant spices, and juicy, tender chicken, this Peri Peri Chicken Recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Originating from Portuguese and African culinary traditions, this vibrant recipe combines a bold blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and a tangy peri-peri sauce to create chicken that’s smoky, spicy, succulent, and utterly irresistible. Whether you grill or roast it, the marinade seeps into every bite, making it a perfect go-to for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast with friends. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your most requested dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Peri Peri Chicken Recipe is in its straightforward and thoughtful ingredients list. Each element is essential, not only adding layers of flavor and texture but also lending that signature color and aroma that define peri peri chicken.
- Chicken: Choose bone-in, skin-on thighs or breasts for juicy, flavorful meat.
- Olive oil: Helps create a smooth marinade and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
- Garlic: Adds an aromatic bite that blends perfectly with the spices.
- Red wine vinegar: Brings tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
- Lemon juice: Infuses fresh citrus notes that brighten the dish.
- Smoked paprika: Gives the marinade a deep smoky flavor and rich red color.
- Ground cumin and coriander: Provide warm, earthy undertones that build complexity.
- Chili flakes: Give the right kick of heat, adjustable to your spice preference.
- Peri-peri sauce or hot sauce: The star flavor, delivering authentic bold and fiery heat.
- Red bell pepper: Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the marinade.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the heat and acidity in the peri peri sauce.
How to Make Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by adding olive oil, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili flakes, peri-peri sauce, chopped red bell pepper, salt, and black pepper into a blender or food processor. Blend everything until the marinade is completely smooth. This sauce will infuse the chicken with that trademark peri peri punch and create a gorgeous coating that locks in juices.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Coat each piece of chicken evenly with the marinade. Make sure the skin and all the nooks are well covered to maximize flavor. Cover the chicken with plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. For the most intense flavor, let it marinate overnight. The longer it rests, the deeper the flavors sink in.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
You can grill or roast according to your preference. For grilling, heat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken about 6-8 minutes per side, until the skin crisps nicely and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For roasting, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and roast for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and a golden finish.
Step 4: Make the Peri Peri Sauce (Optional)
While the chicken cooks, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, peri-peri sauce, smoked paprika, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small saucepan. Warm gently over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened. This sauce can be served on the side for dipping or drizzled over the cooked chicken for an extra flavor boost.
Step 5: Serve the Chicken Hot
Once the chicken has finished cooking, serve it straightaway while it’s hot and juicy. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for that fresh pop of green and fragrant scent.
How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brighten up the dish beautifully. They add an inviting color contrast and a hint of freshness that balances the bold spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with simple roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or even crispy sweet potato fries. A fresh garden salad with a citrus vinaigrette also complements the spicy and smoky notes without overpowering the main star—the peri peri chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve your peri peri chicken alongside grilled corn on the cob rubbed with a bit of chili-lime butter, or slice the chicken and toss it into warm pita bread with yogurt sauce and crunchy slaw for a delicious handheld wrap. The versatility makes this recipe a winner at casual family dinners or lively gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the skin intact helps preserve moisture and flavor. The marinade and cooking method mean the chicken reheats beautifully without drying out.
Freezing
Peri Peri Chicken Recipe leftovers freeze well. Wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps restore crispness to the skin better than a microwave. Alternatively, use a skillet on medium heat with a splash of oil to gently re-crisp the skin while warming the meat.
FAQs
What is peri peri sauce made of?
Peri peri sauce is a spicy chili-based sauce traditionally made using African bird’s eye chili, garlic, lemon, vinegar, and various seasonings. It’s known for its vibrant heat, citrus tang, and smoky undertones that give peri peri chicken its distinctive flavor.
Can I make this Peri Peri Chicken Recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! The recipe is flexible—simply reduce or omit the chili flakes and peri peri sauce. You can also swap for a milder hot sauce or use less of the chili components to control the heat without losing flavor.
Is it better to use thighs or breasts for peri peri chicken?
Bone-in, skin-on thighs are often preferred due to their juiciness and flavor retention during cooking. Breasts work well too if you want a leaner option but be careful not to overcook them, as they dry out faster.
Can this Peri Peri Chicken Recipe be cooked on a stovetop?
Yes! You can pan-sear the marinated chicken in a heavy skillet over medium heat, cooking each side for 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra smoky flavor, finish it under the broiler for a few minutes.
What sides go best with peri peri chicken?
Roasted veggies, fluffy rice, salads with citrusy dressings, or even crispy fries make perfect companions. The key is to choose sides that balance the heat and bring complementary flavors without competing with the bold chicken marinade.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Peri Peri Chicken Recipe a try—it’s such a flavorful, juicy, and exciting dish that makes every meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, or just treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. So grab those simple ingredients, get marinating, and enjoy some seriously tasty peri peri chicken magic!
