There’s a certain joy that comes from gathering around a beautifully roasted chicken, especially when it’s infused with bold flavors and served alongside crispy potatoes. Recently, I discovered a delightful twist on the classic butterflied chicken, and I couldn’t resist sharing it. The vibrant notes of an ancho chili marinade coupled with the freshness of a cilantro sauce transform a simple meal into a feast.
One evening, while experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to combine my love for spicy dishes with comfort food. The result? A Peri Peri Chicken recipe that’s not only easy to whip up but also guaranteed to impress friends and family. Each bite is a perfect balance of smoky, zesty, and creamy, making it an ideal choice for cozy nights or casual gatherings. And let’s not forget about the golden-brown potatoes soaking up all that flavorful goodness! If you’re tired of the same old takeout routine and yearn for something homemade yet exotic, this peri peri chicken is just the treat you need. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that brings the warmth of home cooking back to your table!
Why is Peri Peri Chicken a must-try?
Bold flavors: The zesty peri peri marinade infuses the chicken with a dynamic taste profile that dances on your palate.
Perfectly Crispy: Broiling the chicken skin ensures it reaches that coveted golden-brown finish that is irresistible.
Crowd pleaser: Impress your friends and family with a dish that is sure to be a conversation starter.
Versatile side pairing: The accompanying potatoes soak up the marinades, making every bite delightful.
Quick prep: With a total cooking time of under an hour, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner in, this peri peri chicken is the perfect pick-me-up from the mundane. If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, consider exploring my mouthwatering chicken curry.
Peri Peri Chicken Ingredients
Ready to bring the zesty spirit of Peri Peri chicken to your dinner table? Here’s everything you’ll need!
For the Chicken
- Whole Chicken – 3-4 lbs, butterflied for even cooking and crispy skin.
- Potatoes (Yukon or Reds) – 1 1/2 lbs, thinly sliced for effortless roasting.
For the Marinade
- Dried Ancho Chilies – 2, rehydrated to bring a smoky sweetness.
- Smoked Paprika – 2 tablespoons, adding a deeper, richer flavor.
- Garlic – 6 cloves, crushed for aromatic intensity.
- Kosher Salt – 1 tablespoon, enhancing the overall flavors beautifully.
- Ground Coriander – 1 teaspoon, imparting a citrusy nuance to the mix.
- Sherry Vinegar, Red Wine Vinegar, or Lemon Juice – 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon, for a zesty tang that complements the marinade.
- Olive Oil – 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon, helping the marinade cling to the chicken.
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, adding a touch of heat.
For the Cilantro Sauce
- Plain Yogurt – 1 cup, providing a creamy base that balances spice.
- Cilantro – 1 bunch, finely chopped for a fresh, vibrant kick.
- Kosher Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Ground Coriander – 1/2 teaspoon, echoing the marinade’s flavors.
- Cracked Pepper – to taste, for a bit of extra zing.
- Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon, enhancing the freshness of the sauce.
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon, helping to blend the sauce smoothly.
Get your ingredients ready for an unforgettable homemade feast of peri peri chicken that will excite your taste buds!
How to Make Peri Peri Chicken
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. This ensures your chicken will roast perfectly and get that lovely golden-brown skin.
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Rehydrate the dried chilies by simmering them in a small pot of water for 20 minutes. Once done, remove the stems and seeds—these little steps make a big flavor difference!
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Butterfly the chicken: Rinse it well, pat it dry, and place it breast down on a cutting board. Carefully cut along both sides of the spine, remove, and discard it. Press down on the breast bone to flatten the chicken—this helps it cook evenly.
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Blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. This will pack all the flavors together beautifully!
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Brush a layer of the marinade onto the bottom of a large sheet pan. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, and sprinkle them with kosher salt—these will soak up all those delicious drippings!
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Marinate the chicken: Brush all sides and crevices with the marinade, making sure to get every nook and cranny. Place the chicken, skin side down, on the potatoes, and slide the pan into the oven.
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Turn the chicken after 15 minutes. Flip it over and brush some marinade on the skin side. Bake until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), which should take an additional 15-30 minutes.
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Broil for a few minutes at the end to crisp the skin and give it a beautiful browned finish. Keep an eye on it—this step makes all the difference!
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Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute. You might want to continue cooking or crisping the potatoes for that perfect texture!
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Combine the cilantro sauce ingredients in a bowl or food processor while the chicken roasts. This fresh sauce is the perfect complement to your zesty peri peri chicken.
Optional: Drizzle additional olive oil over the potatoes before serving for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Peri Peri Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover peri peri chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and moisture.
Freezer: If you have more leftovers, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Ensure to remove excess air for best results.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating. Pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, to keep it juicy.
Cilantro Sauce: Store the cilantro sauce separately in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container, bringing brightness back when served with reheated chicken.
Helpful Tricks for Peri Peri Chicken
- Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This deepens the peri peri flavor and makes the chicken super tender.
- Avoid Underseasoning: Don’t skip out on salt in the marinade; it’s essential for bringing out the rich flavors. Taste and adjust according to your preference.
- Crispy Is Key: To achieve perfectly crispy skin, don’t rush the broiling step—watch it carefully to prevent burning while ensuring that delectable golden-brown finish.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your peri peri chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and delicious eating.
- Potato Positioning: Arrange potatoes evenly in the pan. This ensures they cook uniformly and soak up all the savory juices from the chicken during baking.
What to Serve with Peri Peri Chicken?
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a vibrant peri peri chicken dinner wafting through your home, creating an enticing atmosphere for family and friends.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the delicious cilantro sauce, this crunchy yet fluffy bread adds a delightful texture and buttery flavor.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the zesty chicken.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn pairs beautifully with the spicy flavors of the peri peri chicken, adding a fun and vibrant touch to your meal.
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Roasted Veggies: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables, roasted until caramelized, complements the smoky notes of the chicken while adding nutritional depth.
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Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime adds a bright, herbaceous element that pairs wonderfully with the rich, spicy chicken.
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Chilled Sparkling Wine: A crisp white or sparkling wine balances the heat of the peri peri chicken beautifully, making it an ideal beverage choice.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich and creamy treat rounds off a spicy meal, providing a delightful contrast that your guests will love.
Peri Peri Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and add your own twist to make it even more special!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the marinade for an extra heat boost.
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Herbaceous Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the cilantro sauce for added depth and aroma. It’ll elevate the overall freshness and complement the chicken beautifully.
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Citrus Zing: Replace the lemon juice in the sauce with lime juice for a slightly different tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken.
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Yogurt Substitute: Use dairy-free yogurt or sour cream in the cilantro sauce to cater to dietary restrictions without losing that creamy texture.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or asparagus on the roasting pan alongside the potatoes for a colorful and nutritious side.
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Garlic Lovers: For those who can’t get enough garlic, add roasted garlic cloves to the marinade or the sauce for an aromatic punch.
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BBQ Flair: Grill the butterflied chicken instead of baking for a smoky flavor that enhances the peri peri profile—watch for flare-ups!
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Sweet Note: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup in the marinade for a subtle sweetness that balances the spice nicely.
With these variations, you’ll always find new delights in each bite of this irresistible dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Zesty Peri Peri Chicken meal prep instructions will save you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the butterflied chicken, then refrigerate it in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. The potatoes can also be sliced a day ahead—just toss them with a little olive oil and salt, then store them in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious home-cooked meal that tastes just as flavorful and fresh as if you made it on the spot!
Peri Peri Chicken Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select a whole chicken for this recipe?
When selecting a whole chicken, look for one that is fresh, with a plump and firm body. Ensure the skin is pale and free of any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. I typically go for chickens that weigh between 3-4 pounds, as they yield tender meat that cooks evenly for this peri peri chicken recipe.
How should I store leftover peri peri chicken?
Absolutely! Store your leftover peri peri chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors again without worrying about food safety. If you want to enjoy it later, I suggest freezing it. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent moisture loss.
Can I freeze cooked peri peri chicken? How?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Ensure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my chicken doesn’t seem cooked enough?
If your peri peri chicken appears undercooked, don’t panic! Return it to the oven and continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is the safest way to check—poke into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. Every oven is slightly different, and sometimes an extra 10-15 minutes can make all the difference!
Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! This peri peri chicken can cater to various dietary preferences. However, if you’re serving it to someone with allergies, be cautious with the marinade ingredients. The olive oil and vinegar are typically safe, but make sure to adjust or replace with allergen-friendly alternatives if needed. If you’re making this for someone with a dairy allergy, you can omit the cilantro sauce or use a non-dairy yogurt as a base.
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Very much so! While Yukon and red potatoes work beautifully due to their creamy texture, feel free to experiment with other varieties. Fingerlings or small Golden potatoes could be delightful alternatives. Just keep in mind the thickness of the slices to ensure they cook evenly along with the chicken!
Zesty Peri Peri Chicken: A Flavorful Twist on Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Rehydrate the dried chilies by simmering them in a small pot of water for 20 minutes. Remove the stems and seeds.
- Butterfly the chicken by rinsing, patting dry, and placing it breast down. Cut along the spine, remove it, and press down to flatten.
- Blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth paste.
- Brush a layer of the marinade onto a large sheet pan. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top and sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Marinate the chicken by brushing all sides with the marinade, then place the chicken skin side down on the potatoes.
- Turn the chicken after 15 minutes and brush some marinade on the skin side before baking until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Broil for a few minutes to crisp the skin, keeping an eye on it.
- Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Combine the cilantro sauce ingredients while the chicken roasts.
