Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of East Africa! This Piri Piri Chicken recipe is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines spicy, tangy, and aromatic elements into one irresistible dish. Whether you're a heat-seeker or a adventurous food lover, this recipe promises to deliver a knockout punch of taste that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs
- 2 tbsp piri piri sauce
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the legs dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin and better seasoning absorption.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine piri piri sauce, paprika, garlic powder, olive oil, and salt to create a marinade with vibrant, bold flavors.
- Thoroughly coat each chicken leg with the marinade, ensuring complete coverage on all sides. Allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) or prepare a grill with medium-high heat for direct cooking.
- If using an oven, place chicken legs on a lined baking sheet with a wire rack to allow even heat circulation. For grilling, place chicken directly on clean, oiled grates.
- Cook chicken for approximately 35-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot with side dishes like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Don't rush the marinating process. The longer the chicken sits in the piri piri marinade (ideally 2 hours), the more deeply the flavors will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees both food safety and juicy meat.
- Skin Crispiness Hack: Pat the chicken dry before marinating to help achieve that perfect crispy skin. The less moisture, the crispier the result!
- Flexibility in Cooking: While the recipe suggests oven or grill, you can also use a cast-iron skillet or air fryer for equally delicious results.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro isn't just a garnish – it adds a bright, fresh contrast to the spicy chicken. Don't be shy with it!
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with cooling sides like yogurt-based sauces or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
