Spicy piri piri chicken

Experience a burst of flavor with this Spicy Piri Piri Chicken recipe! Featuring a juicy 3 lb whole chicken marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, fiery red hot chili peppers, and a touch of lemon juice for a perfect balance. Perfect for a bold and spicy meal that will tantalize your taste buds.

14 May 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 50 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
2 red hot chili peppers
1 tbsp lemon juice
Spicy piri piri chicken

Spicy Piri Piri Chicken is a zesty and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Portugal right to your kitchen. This recipe combines the heat of red hot chili peppers with the aromatic flavors of garlic and oregano, creating a mouthwatering experience that you won't soon forget. Perfect for a family dinner or an impressive dish at your next gathering, spicy Piri Piri Chicken is sure to be a hit.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, finely chopped red hot chili peppers, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Place the whole chicken on a clean surface. Using your hands or a basting brush, generously apply the prepared marinade all over the chicken. Make sure to cover the chicken evenly, including under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
3. Refrigerate
- After marinating, cover the chicken with plastic wrap or place it in a large resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken. For best results, marinate overnight.
4. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) about 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook the chicken.
5. Roast the Chicken
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and place it on a roasting pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the chicken (usually the breast or thigh). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
6. Rest the Chicken
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it moist and flavorful.
7. Serve
- Carve the chicken into desired portions and serve hot. This spicy Piri Piri chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to permeate the meat fully.

- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of red hot chili peppers or remove the seeds before blending.

- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.

- Baste the chicken with the marinate mixture occasionally during cooking to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

- For a crispier skin, roast the chicken uncovered in the last 20 minutes of cooking time.

- Pair the dish with a cooling dip, like yogurt or sour cream, to complement the spiciness of the Piri Piri Chicken.

Enjoy your Spicy Piri Piri Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the heat. The rich flavors and crispy skin of this dish make it a delightful and satisfying meal for any occasion. Bon appétit!

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 1030kcal
Protein 90g
Carbohydrates 3.13g
Fiber 0.88g
Sugar 1.16g
Fat 80g

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