Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors with just the right amount of tang and smoky depth, Peri Peri Chicken is about to win you over! This iconic dish, bursting with vibrant color and irresistible aroma, brings together juicy, oven-roasted chicken thighs with a lively marinade of peppers, garlic, chilies, and warm spices. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping weekend feast, it’s the kind of meal that makes the whole kitchen come alive—trust me, your taste buds will be dancing from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a starring role in perfecting the flavor, juiciness, and eye-catching look of Peri Peri Chicken. Just a handful of fresh, simple components is all it takes—every one is essential for that unmistakable complexity and punch this dish is famous for.
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs give you juicy, tender meat and irresistibly crispy skin.
- Olive Oil: Blends the marinade ingredients together and helps crisp up the chicken as it bakes.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness, bulk, and gorgeous color to the fiery marinade base.
- Garlic Cloves: Bring a pungent depth that balances out the tang and heat.
- Red Chilies: The star of the show for that classic Peri Peri punch—adjust the quantity for your desired kick.
- Smoked Paprika: Smokiness rounds out the heat and gives that beautiful red hue.
- Dried Oregano: Adds an herby note that works wonders with the spice mix.
- Ground Cumin: Lends earthy warmth and a subtle complexity.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all those flavors to life.
- Black Pepper: Adds a layer of gentle heat beneath the chili’s fire.
- Lemon Juice: Zingy citrus brightens and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Extra tang to sharpen all the flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Just a touch for caramelized edges and a rounded finish to the marinade.
How to Make Peri Peri Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Peri Peri Marinade
First things first, grab your food processor or blender—this is where the magic happens! Toss in your chopped red bell pepper, garlic cloves, red chilies (remember, you’re in charge of the heat), smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and brown sugar. Blend everything until it turns into a smooth, vividly red paste. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the mixture and make it extra luscious. The aroma at this stage is tempting all by itself!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs in a big mixing bowl or a large resealable bag. Pour the Peri Peri marinade all over, making sure every nook and cranny is coated—get right under the skin if you can! For the very best results, give the chicken at least 2 hours in the fridge, or let it soak up those flavors overnight for maximum punch. Trust me: patience pays off here.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour over any extra marinade—don’t waste a drop! Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re aiming for golden, crispy skin and juicy, fully cooked meat, with little spots of char for that authentic Peri Peri Chicken flavor. Let the chicken rest for about five minutes before serving so the juices settle in beautifully.
How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken
Garnishes
When your Peri Peri Chicken comes sizzling out of the oven, the finishing touches make it pop even more. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a hit of freshness, and add lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add an extra squeeze of citrus if they like. Sometimes, I toss on a little extra chili for those who love that fiery edge!
Side Dishes
This dish is endlessly versatile—think fluffy white rice, tender roasted potatoes, or a light green salad to soak up the irresistible juices. Also amazing: grilled corn on the cob, warm crusty bread, or even a handful of simple pickled onions to balance all that rich heat. Peri Peri Chicken truly plays well with almost anything.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate the chicken thighs on a big platter over a bed of arugula or mixed greens—so striking! Or, shred the juicy meat and pile it into soft rolls, tacos, or wraps with crunchy slaw for the ultimate casual meal. Leftovers also make a brilliant addition to grain bowls or sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Peri Peri Chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen even more overnight, so those leftovers can be a real treat for lunch or another night’s dinner!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze cooled, cooked chicken wrapped tightly or in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating—the taste and texture will still be fantastic.
Reheating
For the juiciest results, reheat Peri Peri Chicken in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes, just until hot throughout. You can also microwave it in a pinch, but covering the chicken with a damp paper towel can help keep it moist and prevent drying out.
FAQs
What makes Peri Peri Chicken different from other spicy chicken dishes?
The distinct zing of Peri Peri Chicken comes from its blend of African birds-eye chilies (or other hot peppers), zesty citrus, and smoky spices, all balanced in a tangy, vibrant marinade that’s truly unique.
How spicy is Peri Peri Chicken, and can I tone down the heat?
You’re totally in control! Use one chili for gentle warmth, or ramp up to two (or more!) for serious fire. Removing the chili seeds will mellow things out, so you can completely customize the heat level to suit your crowd.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely—Peri Peri Chicken is amazing on the grill! Simply cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. The smoky charring from the grill adds a fantastic layer of flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Peri Peri Chicken is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of any store-bought spices or vinegars, and double-check if you have sensitivities.
Can I use chicken breasts or other cuts?
Definitely! While thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful, you can swap in bone-in breasts or drumsticks—just monitor the cook time, as leaner pieces like breasts may bake faster than thighs.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait for a special occasion to make Peri Peri Chicken—it’s such an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that packs serious wow-factor with little effort. So fire up your oven (or grill), let those incredible aromas fill your kitchen, and get ready for a meal that’ll instantly become a favorite in your home too!
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Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Spice up your dinner with this flavorful Peri Peri Chicken recipe. Marinated in a zesty blend of peppers, spices, and citrus, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1–2 red chilies (adjust for heat)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Make the Marinade: Blend the red bell pepper, garlic, chilies, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and brown sugar until smooth. Slowly add olive oil while blending.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken thighs with the peri peri marinade in a bowl or bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish. Bake for 35–40 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try grilling the marinated chicken.
- Pair with rice, roasted veggies, or salad.
- Adjust chili quantity to suit your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Portuguese, African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
