Ohhh yeah 🔥🍗 Peri Peri Chicken is fiery, flavorful, and full of bold African-Portuguese vibes — smoky, spicy, tangy, and straight-up irresistible. Whether you grill it, roast it, or pan-fry it, the magic is in that marinade. Let’s break it down:
🌶️🔥 Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
🕒 Time: 1–2 hours (includes marination)
🍽 Serves: 4
Ingredients:
For the Peri Peri Marinade:
- 3–4 red chilies (fresno or bird’s eye, depending on heat preference)
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne or chili powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- Salt to taste
- Optional: roasted red bell pepper (adds sweetness + color)
Chicken:
- 4 chicken legs/thighs or 1 whole chicken, spatchcocked
- (You can also use boneless chicken thighs or wings!)
Instructions:
- Make the Marinade:
Blend all marinade ingredients until smooth. Adjust heat and tang to your liking. - Marinate the Chicken:
Score the chicken (deep slashes to help it absorb). Rub the marinade all over, under the skin too.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is 🔥). - Cook It: Grill Option:
Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook chicken skin-side down first for crispiness, 6–7 mins each side, until nicely charred and cooked through. Oven Option:
Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 35–45 mins, basting halfway with leftover marinade or pan juices. Pan-Fry Option:
Sear chicken in a hot pan until charred, then cover and cook through on medium heat. - Optional Final Baste:
Brush with extra marinade or a quick peri peri butter (melted butter + marinade + lemon) before serving.
🍽️ Serve With:
- Spicy rice or fries
- Grilled corn or veggies
- Creamy coleslaw or salad
- Lime wedges & fresh herbs on the side
Want to make Peri Peri Chicken Wings? Or turn it into a loaded sandwich or bowl? I’ve got those ideas too. Just say the word 😎
