Description
Enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of this Portuguese-African inspired Peri Peri Chicken recipe. Tender chicken thighs and drumsticks are marinated in a zesty peri peri sauce, then grilled or baked to perfection. Perfect for a flavorful main course that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Peri Peri Marinade:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (about 2.5–3 lbs total)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2–3 red chili peppers (like bird’s eye or Fresno, adjust to heat preference)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Peri Peri Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, onion, garlic, red chilies, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a bowl or bag, pour in the marinade, and coat thoroughly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Cooking Methods: Preheat oven to 400°F or grill to medium-high heat. Bake chicken in the oven for 35–45 minutes or grill for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve: Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust chili quantity to control heat.
- Peri peri sauce can be served on the side or blended with mayo for a dip.
- Pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or flatbread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
