Nando’s-Style Peri-Peri Chicken

 


A bold, vibrant recipe for succulent chicken with that unmistakable fiery kick and zesty finish.

Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)

Cook time: 35–45 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients

1 kg (2.2 lbs) Chicken (thighs or drumsticks work best for juiciness)

3–4 tbsp Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce (Mild, Medium, or Hot)

3 Garlic cloves, minced

1-inch piece Fresh ginger, grated

2 tbsp Olive oil

1 tbsp Smoked paprika

1 Lemon, juiced

1 tsp Dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish: Fresh parsley and lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to make 2–3 shallow slashes in each piece of chicken. This allows the marinade to penetrate deep into the meat for maximum flavor.

2. The Peri-Peri Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the Peri-Peri sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper.

3. Marinate for Depth

Place the chicken in a large bowl or a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Massage the sauce into the meat, ensuring it gets into the slashes.

Chef’s Tip: For the best results, marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.

4. The Grilling Process

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking tray. Roast for 30–35 minutes until cooked through.

The Finishing Touch: Switch the oven to the Broil (Grill) setting for the last 3–5 minutes to get those signature charred, crispy edges.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Brush the chicken with a little extra Peri-Peri sauce immediately after taking it out of the oven for a glossy, extra-flavorful finish. Serve with spicy rice, corn on the cob, or a fresh side salad.

Pro Tips

The Sizzle: If you have a cast-iron griddle pan, sear the chicken for 2 minutes per side before putting it in the oven to get authentic grill marks.

Heat Control: If the sauce is too hot, whisk in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade to mellow it out.

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