Name: Peri Peri Chicken: 7 Bold Flavors to Ignite Your Dinner
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: African
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs Whole Chicken, butterflied; 1 1/2 lbs Potatoes (Yukon or Reds), thinly sliced; 2 Dried Ancho Chilies, rehydrated; 2 tablespoons Smoked Paprika; 6 cloves Garlic, crushed; 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander; 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon Sherry Vinegar, Red Wine Vinegar, or Lemon Juice; 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Plain Yogurt; 1 bunch Cilantro, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Coriander; Cracked Pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

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Peri Peri Chicken is a culinary gem that transports your taste buds straight to Africa with its fiery flavors and smoky goodness. This dish has transcended borders, becoming a widely adored favorite, thanks to its unique blend of spices and zesty marinade. What makes this recipe stand out is its tantalizing balance of heat and flavor, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Allow me to guide you through this delicious journey, where bold flavors meet effortless cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Peri Peri Chicken

This Peri Peri Chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:

It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the homemade peri peri marinade.
This dish highlights the versatility of spicy chicken, making it suitable for various occasions.
It’s a fantastic way to introduce African spicy chicken to your dinner table.
The butterflied technique ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, enhancing your meal.
Your family and friends will rave about the unique zesty taste.

This grilled peri peri chicken recipe not only brings delight but also reflects the rich culinary tradition of Africa, making it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients for Peri Peri Chicken

Gather these items:

3-4 lbs Whole Chicken, butterflied
1 1/2 lbs Potatoes (Yukon or Reds), thinly sliced
2 Dried Ancho Chilies, rehydrated
2 tablespoons Smoked Paprika
6 cloves Garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon Kosher Salt
1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon Sherry Vinegar, Red Wine Vinegar, or Lemon Juice
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 cup Plain Yogurt
1 bunch Cilantro, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
1/2 teaspoon Ground Coriander
Cracked Pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
1 tablespoon Olive Oil

How to Make Peri Peri Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Step 2: Rehydrate the dried chilies by simmering them in a small pot of water for 20 minutes. Remove the stems and seeds.
Step 3: Butterfly the chicken by rinsing, patting dry, and placing it breast down. Cut along the spine, remove it, and press down to flatten.
Step 4: Blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth paste.
Step 5: Brush a layer of the marinade onto a large sheet pan. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top and sprinkle with kosher salt.
Step 6: Marinate the chicken by brushing all sides with the marinade, then place the chicken skin side down on the potatoes.
Step 7: Turn the chicken after 15 minutes and brush some marinade on the skin side before baking until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 8: Broil for a few minutes to crisp the skin, keeping an eye on it.
Step 9: Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step 10: Combine the cilantro sauce ingredients while the chicken roasts.

Pro Tips for the Best Peri Peri Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your chicken is well-butterflied for even cooking.
Marinate the chicken overnight for more intense flavors.
For extra heat, leave some seeds in the chilies.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness.

Best Ways to Serve Peri Peri Chicken

This spicy grilled chicken recipe can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Serve with roasted vegetables for a hearty option.
Accompany with rice or couscous to soak up the delicious juices.

How to Store and Reheat Peri Peri Chicken

To store, wrap any leftovers in foil or place in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peri Peri Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Peri Peri Chicken?

The secret lies in the marinade! Using a blend of spices, including smoked paprika and garlic, creates a depth of flavor that is unmatched. Additionally, the cooking method is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.

Can I make Peri Peri Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and let the flavors soak in overnight. This will enhance the taste and make dinner prep a breeze.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peri Peri Chicken?

Some common mistakes include not marinating long enough or cooking at too high a temperature. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and allow it to rest before serving.

Variations of Peri Peri Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Try using different types of protein, such as fish or shrimp, for a lighter option.
Incorporate fruit like mango or pineapple into the marinade for a sweet twist.
For a vegetarian option, use portobello mushrooms marinated in the same sauce.

These variations allow you to explore the vast culinary landscape of African cuisine while enjoying the beloved flavors of peri peri.

Peri Peri Chicken: 7 Bold Flavors to Ignite Your Dinner - Peri Peri Chicken - additional detail

For more tips on cooking chicken, check out this guide. If you’re interested in learning about different marinades, visit this page. You can also explore more chicken recipes for inspiration.