Peri Peri Chicken
Peri Peri Chicken, also known as Piri Piri Chicken, is a popular dish with origins in Portugal and Angola, known for its bold and fiery flavors. The star of this dish is the peri peri marinade, made from a blend of hot peppers, garlic, herbs, and spices, which infuses the chicken with a tantalizing heat and depth of flavor. Traditionally grilled or roasted, Peri Peri Chicken is a favorite among spice enthusiasts and those seeking an adventurous culinary experience. With its vibrant colors and intense taste, this dish is sure to excite the taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
The key to a perfect Peri Peri Chicken lies in the marinade, which packs a punch of flavor and spice. Whether you prefer your chicken grilled, roasted, or pan-fried, the marinade ensures that each bite is bursting with savory and tangy goodness. Whether served as a main course with sides like rice, potatoes, or vegetables, or enjoyed in sandwiches or wraps, Peri Peri Chicken is a versatile dish that promises to add a kick to any mealtime.
Ingredients Required for Making Peri Peri Chicken
- Chicken pieces (चिकन के टुकड़े) – 1 kg
- Red bell peppers (लाल शिमला मिर्च) – 2 large, roughly chopped
- Red chili peppers (लाल मिर्च) – 4-6, depending on spice preference
- Garlic cloves (लहसुन की कलियाँ) – 6-8 cloves
- Lemon juice (नींबू का रस) – from 2 lemons
- Olive oil (जैतून का तेल) – 1/4 cup
- Paprika powder (पाप्रिका पाउडर) – 1 tablespoon
- Dried oregano (सूखी अजवाइन) – 1 teaspoon
- Salt (नमक) – to taste
- Black pepper powder (काली मिर्च पाउडर) – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh cilantro (ताजा धनिया) – for garnish
Step-wise Process of Making Peri Peri Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped red bell peppers, red chili peppers, garlic cloves, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper powder. Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the peri peri marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag. Put it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, If you can, leave the contents in the refrigerator overnight. Refrigeration allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Once marinated, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Preheat the oven or grill to a medium-high heat. Grill or roast the chicken pieces, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and charred on the outside. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes on the grill or 35-40 minutes in the oven.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked Peri Peri Chicken to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with your choice of sides and enjoy the spicy and flavorful goodness.
Number of Servings
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 4 hours to overnight
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (grilling) or 35-40 minutes (roasting)
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes to overnight (including marinating time)
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Adjusting Spice Level: The number of red chili peppers can be adjusted according to your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds and membranes before blending.
- Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours for the flavors to fully develop. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Cooking Method: Peri Peri Chicken can be grilled, roasted, or pan-fried according to your preference. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior for maximum flavor.
How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken
Serve hot Peri Peri Chicken with your choice of sides such as rice, roasted potatoes, or grilled vegetables. It can also be enjoyed in sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a flavorful meal on the go. Pair it with a cooling yogurt-based dip or sauce to balance out the heat.
To Sum Up…
Peri Peri Chicken is a fiery and flavorful dish that brings together the bold flavors of hot peppers, garlic, and spices with succulent chicken pieces. Whether grilled, roasted, or pan-fried, this dish promises to add excitement to your mealtime with its vibrant colors and intense taste. With its versatility and ease of preparation, Peri Peri Chicken is sure to become a favorite among spice lovers and adventurous eaters alike.
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