peri peri chicken recipe

The Best peri peri chicken recipe

I’ve been making peri peri chicken for years, and it’s hands-down one of my family’s favorite meals. There’s something about the bright, tangy heat of the sauce that just works—it’s bold enough to feel special but simple enough to throw together on a weeknight. My kids request it all the time, and honestly, I don’t blame them. The marinade comes together in minutes, and whether you grill it, bake it, or even pan-sear it, the result is always juicy, flavorful chicken with just the right amount of kick.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, but it also holds up well for gatherings—think summer cookouts, game day, or even meal prep for the week. The sauce is made with fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and peri peri peppers (or a good substitute if you can’t find them), so it’s packed with flavor without being overly heavy. Plus, chicken is a lean protein, and when you pair it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad, it’s a balanced meal that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish. If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy, delicious, and always a hit, this one’s a winner.

Spicy Peri Peri Chicken

4.5 from 1508 votes

A fiery and flavorful grilled chicken dish marinated in tangy peri peri sauce, originating from Portuguese-African cuisine. Perfect for a bold and zesty meal with a kick of heat.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time25 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Peri Peri Marinade

• 6-8 fresh red chilies (or 2 tbsp peri peri sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar (optional)

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 8 thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For Serving (Optional)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Side salad or grilled vegetables

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Prepare the peri peri marinade: In a blender, combine chilies, garlic, red onion, red bell pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Blend until smooth. Adjust salt and spice level to taste.
2. 2 Marinate the chicken: Place chicken in a mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Pour the peri peri marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. 3 Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. 4 Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade (shake off excess) and place on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is charred in spots.
5. 5 Rest the chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. 6 Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges. Serve with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread.

🔧Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra heat, add more fresh chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder version, remove the seeds from the chilies before blending. The marinade can also be used for shrimp or tofu.

Peri peri chicken is one of those recipes that just works every time, no matter the occasion. It’s flavorful enough to impress at a backyard barbecue but simple enough for a weeknight dinner with the family. The spicy, tangy kick pairs well with almost anything, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike will keep coming back for more.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Peri Peri Chicken

1. What is peri peri chicken, and what makes it unique?

Peri peri chicken is a spicy grilled or roasted chicken dish marinated in peri peri sauce, which is made from African bird’s eye chilies, garlic, lemon, and other spices. Its unique flavor comes from the fiery, tangy, and slightly smoky taste of the peri peri sauce, which sets it apart from other grilled chicken recipes.

2. Can I adjust the spice level in peri peri chicken?

Yes! The spice level can be easily adjusted by controlling the amount of peri peri sauce or fresh chilies used. For a milder version, reduce the chilies or use a store-bought peri peri sauce with a lower heat level. For extra spice, add more fresh chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For the most flavorful peri peri chicken, marinate the chicken for at least 4–6 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the spices and acids in the marinade to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in tender and well-seasoned chicken.

4. Can I bake peri peri chicken instead of grilling it?

Absolutely! While grilling gives the best smoky flavor, you can bake peri peri chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the marinated chicken on a baking tray, and bake for 25–30 minutes (or until fully cooked), basting with extra sauce halfway through.

5. What sides pair well with peri peri chicken?

Peri peri chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including: – Grilled vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, or corn) – Fresh salads (like a tangy coleslaw or cucumber salad) – Rice or fries (for a heartier meal) – Garlic bread or naan (to soak up the extra sauce)