Peri Peri Chicken

Spice Up Your Culinary Adventure: Mastering Peri Peri Chicken Delight

Prepare your taste buds for a fiery journey with the tantalizing flavors of Peri Peri Chicken! Originating from the heart of Portuguese-African cuisine, this dish has conquered the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. Today, we dive into the art of crafting the perfect Peri Peri Chicken, where succulent meat meets a symphony of spices that dance on your taste buds. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients:

To embark on this flavor-packed adventure, gather the following ingredients:

Meat:

  • 4 Chicken leg/thigh quarters
  • Salt (to taste, for seasoning chicken)

Produce:

  • 4 Fresno chili peppers, red
  • 6 cloves Garlic
  • 1 Habanero pepper
  • 2 Lemons
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/2 cup Red bell pepper
  • 1 tbsp Thyme, fresh leaves

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tsp Cayenne pepper, ground
  • 1 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp Paprika, smoked
  • 1 tsp White sugar

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 1/2 cup Olive oil, mild
  • 1/3 cup Sherry vinegar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Start by creating the fiery Peri Peri marinade. In a blender, combine the red Fresno chili peppers, garlic cloves, habanero pepper, juice of 2 lemons, onion powder, red bell pepper, and fresh thyme leaves. Blend until you achieve a smooth and vibrant mixture.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken leg/thigh quarters with paper towels. Season generously with salt, ensuring the flavors penetrate the meat. This step lays the foundation for the Peri Peri marinade to work its magic.
  3. Marinate for Intensity: Coat the seasoned chicken pieces with the Peri Peri marinade, ensuring each nook and cranny is immersed in the flavorful concoction. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight for an explosion of taste.
  4. Fire Up the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Peri Peri Chicken thrives on the grill’s smoky essence, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  5. Grill to Perfection: Place the marinated chicken pieces on the preheated grill. Cook each side for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The result? Juicy, smoky Peri Peri Chicken with a tantalizing char.
  6. Craft the Peri Peri Sauce: While the chicken grills, whip up a quick Peri Peri sauce. In a small bowl, combine black pepper, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, smoked paprika, white sugar, olive oil, and sherry vinegar. Mix until well-incorporated, creating a zesty sauce to drizzle over the grilled chicken.
  7. Serve and Savor: Transfer the grilled Peri Peri Chicken to a serving platter. Drizzle the prepared Peri Peri sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness. Get ready to savor the explosion of flavors!

Cook Notes:

  • Adjust the spice level by varying the number of chili peppers used.
  • Experiment with different wood chips on the grill for unique smoky undertones.
  • Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure maximum juiciness.

Variations:

  1. Mango Tango Peri Peri: Introduce a tropical twist by adding mango puree to the marinade for a sweet and spicy infusion.
  2. Garlic Lover’s Delight: Double up on the garlic cloves in the marinade for an extra punch of garlicky goodness.

Keto Versions:

Fear not, keto warriors, for Peri Peri Chicken can be your low-carb ally! Ensure your sugar substitute aligns with your keto lifestyle, and you’re good to go. The natural fats in the chicken and olive oil make this dish a keto-friendly delight. Dive into the flavors without derailing your carb goals!

Low Carb Versions:

Watching your carb intake? Simply substitute the white sugar in the Peri Peri sauce with a low-carb sweetener of your choice. With the absence of starchy ingredients, Peri Peri Chicken naturally aligns with low-carb preferences. Pair it with a crisp salad for a satisfying low-carb feast.

In the realm of bold and unforgettable flavors, Peri Peri Chicken stands tall, inviting you to embrace the intensity of its spice-laden charm. From the vibrant marinade to the zesty Peri Peri sauce, every element of this dish is crafted to delight the senses. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or indulging in a flavorful weeknight dinner, Peri Peri Chicken promises a culinary adventure that leaves a lasting impression. Fire up the grill, unleash the spice, and let the Peri Peri magic unfold on your plate!