Peri-peri chicken has become one of the most popular ways to enjoy chicken, and it is easy to understand why.
It combines chilli heat with garlic, herbs, paprika and citrus-style flavours to create chicken that is spicy, savoury and full of flavour.
The best part is that you do not need restaurant equipment or a complicated recipe to make peri-peri chicken at home.
What is peri-peri?
Peri-peri is associated with chilli-based sauces and seasonings inspired by Portuguese and southern African cooking traditions.
The exact recipe varies, but common flavours include chilli, garlic, paprika, herbs and citrus.
Some versions are relatively mild, while others are extremely hot.
What does peri-peri chicken taste like?
Peri-peri chicken usually has a combination of heat, savoury seasoning, garlic and acidity.
That mixture is what makes it more interesting than simply covering chicken in chilli powder.
A good peri-peri seasoning should give you plenty of flavour alongside the heat.
What chicken is best for peri-peri?
Peri-peri works well with almost every cut of chicken.
Chicken breast is a popular choice because the seasoning adds plenty of flavour to a mild cut.
Chicken thighs are also excellent because they have a naturally richer flavour and tend to remain juicy.
You can also use peri-peri seasoning on chicken strips, drumsticks and wings.
How do you make peri-peri chicken at home?
One option is to make a marinade using chilli, garlic, paprika, lemon and herbs.
Mix the ingredients together, coat the chicken and leave it to marinate before cooking.
Another option is to use a ready-made dry seasoning blend.
Apply the seasoning to the chicken and cook it according to your chosen method.
For an even simpler approach, you can use a peri-peri Flavour Sheet.
Place your chicken onto the seasoned sheet, wrap it around the chicken and cook according to the instructions.
The peri-peri seasoning transfers directly onto the chicken while it cooks.
Do you have to marinate peri-peri chicken?
No.
A marinade is one way to make peri-peri chicken, but it is not essential.
Dry peri-peri seasoning can create plenty of flavour without needing to leave the chicken soaking for hours.
Seasoning transfer sheets are another option when you want the flavour without the preparation involved in making a marinade.
What goes with peri-peri chicken?
Peri-peri chicken works with a huge range of side dishes.
Rice is one of the most popular choices.
You can also serve it with potato wedges, chips, corn, coleslaw, salad or roasted vegetables.
For a quick lunch, slice peri-peri chicken and put it inside a wrap with salad.
How spicy is peri-peri chicken?
That depends on the seasoning.
Peri-peri can range from relatively mild to extremely hot depending on the amount and type of chilli used.
If you are cooking for other people, choose a heat level that everyone is likely to enjoy.
Can you cook peri-peri chicken in an air fryer?
Peri-peri chicken can be cooked using several methods, including oven cooking, grilling, pan cooking and air frying.
The correct cooking time will depend on the size and cut of chicken, as well as the appliance you are using.
Always follow the appropriate cooking instructions and make sure the chicken is completely cooked before eating.
Can you make peri-peri chicken without oil?
Depending on the cooking method and seasoning you use, you may not need to add extra oil.
A dry seasoning can be applied directly to the chicken.
Flavour Sheets also provide a convenient way to apply peri-peri seasoning without preparing an oily marinade.
Why peri-peri works so well with chicken
Chicken has a mild flavour, which makes it ideal for stronger seasonings.
Peri-peri brings heat, garlic, herbs and savoury flavour together in one combination.
That means even a simple chicken breast can become the centre of a really enjoyable meal.
And if you want to make peri-peri chicken without mixing sauces or measuring spices, a peri-peri Flavour Sheet keeps things simple.
Wrap. Cook. Enjoy.