Hi chicken lovers! Here's a delish recipe I wanna share with you guys
It's called Peri peri chicken originally from Mozambique.
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Ingredients:
For the Peri Peri Marinade:
- 4-5 red chili peppers (like bird's eye chilies), chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey (optional, for sweetness)
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken, spatchcocked (or 4 chicken leg quarters)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peri Peri Marinade:
- Combine the red chili peppers, red bell pepper, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar (if using) in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Reserve some marinade for basting later.
- Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- If grilling, oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. If baking, line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Season the chicken with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Grilling Method:
- Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 10-15 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and charred in spots.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before carving.
- Oven Method:
- Place the chicken on the wire rack on the baking sheet, skin-side up.
- Roast for 35-45 minutes, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before carving.
- Serve:
- Garnish the peri peri chicken with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken.
Tips:
- Adjust the number of red chili peppers based on your heat tolerance. Bird's eye chilies are quite hot, so use fewer if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Spatchcocking the chicken ensures even cooking and helps the chicken cook faster.
- You can also use this marinade for chicken wings, thighs, or breasts if you prefer.
Enjoy your homemade peri peri chicken!