Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken is known for its spicy, flavorful kick. Here’s a homemade recipe to recreate this delicious dish:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or you can use bone-in chicken pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Peri-Peri Marinade:
- 2-3 fresh red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chili peppers, red bell pepper, garlic, onion, olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, basil, cumin, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar (if using).
- Blend until you get a smooth paste.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can also use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. If using a grill pan or oven, cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For bone-in pieces, cook for 30-40 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve:
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and serve with your favorite sides like fries, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your homemade Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken!