When it comes to flavor-packed, spicy dishes, few can compete with the tantalizing taste of Peri Peri Chicken. This dish, originating from the heart of African-Portuguese cuisine, is beloved worldwide for its fiery kick and delicious complexity. But why rely on store-bought sauces when you can make a homemade Peri Peri Sauce that elevates your dish to the next level? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the Peri Peri Chicken Recipe with homemade Peri Peri Sauce, guiding you through each step to ensure your chicken is nothing short of spectacular.
Table of Contents
Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking sheet or grill
- Kitchen shears
- Tongs
- Thermometer
Ingredients
For the Peri Peri Sauce:
- 10 -12 bird’s eye chili peppers
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken spatchcocked (or equivalent chicken pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare chili peppers by removing seeds if you prefer a milder sauce.
- In a blender, combine chili peppers, garlic, red bell pepper, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth, then pour the mixture into a saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes to thicken.
- Let the sauce cool and store any excess in a jar (keeps up to two weeks refrigerated).
- Spatchcock the chicken by cutting along both sides of the backbone and flattening it.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with Peri Peri sauce, ensuring it covers all sides.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight for maximum flavor).
- For baking: preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For grilling: preheat the grill to medium heat, oil grates, and cook for 35-40 minutes, turning every 5 minutes.
- Let rest 10 minutes, garnish with herbs, and serve hot.
Notes
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
What is Peri Peri Chicken?
Origins and History
Peri Peri Chicken, also known as Piri Piri or Pili Pili, traces its roots back to Mozambique and Angola, where Portuguese settlers created a magical blend of African bird’s eye chili peppers and Portuguese culinary traditions. Over time, this spicy concoction spread across the globe, finding a special place in the hearts of food lovers.
The Star Ingredient: Peri Peri Sauce
At the heart of this dish is the Peri Peri Sauce. This vibrant, zesty, and spicy sauce is what gives the chicken its signature kick. Made from a mix of hot peppers, garlic, lemon, vinegar, and herbs, it’s a symphony of flavors that can be adjusted to suit your heat tolerance.
Ingredients for the Perfect Peri Peri Chicken
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Peri Peri Sauce:
- 10-12 bird’s eye chili peppers (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken, spatchcocked (or chicken pieces if preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley) for garnish
Making the Peri Peri Sauce
Prepare the Peppers
Begin by prepping your chili peppers. If you prefer a milder sauce, remove the seeds from the peppers. For those who love the heat, leave them in!
Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the chili peppers, garlic, red bell pepper, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Simmer the Sauce
Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes. This helps to meld the flavors together and slightly thicken the sauce. Once done, let it cool and transfer to a jar for storage. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Preparing the Chicken
Spatchcock the Chicken
To spatchcock the chicken, cut along both sides of the backbone using kitchen shears and remove it. Flatten the chicken by pressing down on the breastbone. This technique ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
Marinate the Chicken
Generously coat the chicken with the Peri Peri Sauce, making sure to get it under the skin and into every nook and cranny. For best results, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal.
Grill or Roast the Chicken
Baking
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius).
- Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Grilling
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the Chicken: Cook the chicken for 35-40 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Tips for the Perfect Peri Peri Chicken
- Choosing the Peppers: The heat level of your Peri Peri sauce can be adjusted by the type of peppers you use. For a milder sauce, opt for red bell peppers and Fresno chilies. For more heat, include African Bird’s Eye peppers or even hotter varieties like the Carolina Reaper.
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least a few hours. Overnight marination yields the most flavorful results.
- Cooking Consistency: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
Peri Peri Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Rice or Quinoa: A neutral base that lets the chicken’s flavors shine.
- Grilled Vegetables: Complement the smoky flavors with charred veggies.
- Salad: A fresh, crisp salad helps balance the heat.
Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Lemon wedges
- Extra Peri Peri Sauce for dipping
Creating the perfect Peri Peri Chicken Recipe with homemade Peri Peri Sauce is a culinary adventure worth embarking on. The combination of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or roasting in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor and excitement. Happy cooking!
FAQs
Is peri-peri very spicy?
Yes, peri-peri can be very spicy, as it is made from bird’s eye chili peppers, which are quite hot. However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the recipe and how much chili is used. Some versions of peri-peri sauce are milder, allowing for a broader range of heat preferences .
What is the flavor of peri-peri?
Peri-peri is known for its distinctive spicy and tangy flavor profile. The main ingredient, bird’s eye chili, gives it a strong heat, which is balanced by a mixture of garlic, lemon, vinegar, and various herbs. This combination results in a fiery yet flavorful taste that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors .
Is Peri Peri Chicken African or Portuguese?
Peri Peri Chicken, while commonly associated with Portuguese cuisine, actually has its origins in Southern Africa. The dish was created by Portuguese settlers in Mozambique who combined their culinary techniques with local African bird’s eye chili peppers, known as peri-peri or piri-piri .
What other dishes can I use Peri Peri Sauce with?
Peri Peri Sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as a marinade for shrimp, a dip for fries, or even a sauce for sandwiches and wraps.
How long can I store homemade Peri Peri Sauce?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the sauce can last up to two weeks.
Can I make Peri Peri Chicken without a grill?
Absolutely! Roasting in the oven works just as well. You can also use a stovetop grill pan if you prefer.
How spicy is Peri Peri Chicken?
The heat level can vary based on the number of chili peppers used and whether you include the seeds. If you’re new to spicy foods, start with fewer peppers and adjust to taste.
