Portuguese peri peri chicken is a spicy and flavorful dish known for its use of peri peri sauce, which typically includes chili peppers, herbs, and spices. Here’s a recipe to make Portuguese-style peri peri chicken:
Ingredients:
For the Peri Peri Sauce:
- 6-8 red bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste, use fewer for less heat)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1-2 lemons
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken leg quarters or a whole chicken, cut into parts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peri Peri Sauce:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the red chilies (seeds removed for less heat if desired), garlic cloves, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, black pepper, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until you get a smooth paste. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Pour the peri peri sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, preferably overnight for the flavors to infuse.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has charred grill marks, about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
- Serve:
- Serve the Portuguese peri peri chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and accompanied by sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or salad.
This spicy and aromatic peri peri chicken is a wonderful representation of Portuguese cuisine, offering a delightful blend of flavors. Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste preferences and enjoy this delicious grilled dish!
