Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Peri Peri Chicken is a delicious and spicy dish inspired by the bold flavors of Portuguese and African cuisine. Peri Peri sauce, made from a blend of chili, garlic, lemon, and spices, gives this chicken its distinctive kick. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, offering a delightful combination of heat, tang, and smoky flavor. It’s easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Bold and Spicy Flavor: The Peri Peri sauce adds a fiery kick that’s balanced with tangy lemon and smoky spices.
• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this dish can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile: Serve with a variety of sides, from rice and vegetables to salad and bread.
• Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients, this recipe is both flavorful and nutritious.
• Great for Entertaining: The vibrant flavors and attractive presentation make it a hit for casual gatherings.

What is Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken?

Jamie Oliver’s Peri Peri Chicken is a flavorful dish where chicken is marinated in a homemade Peri Peri sauce, then grilled or baked to perfection. The sauce, a blend of chili, garlic, lemon, and spices, infuses the chicken with a spicy, tangy flavor that’s both robust and addictive.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Stew
• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Risotto

Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 red chilies, roughly chopped (adjust to taste)
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Peri Peri Sauce

• Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped red chilies, garlic cloves, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, lemon zest, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
• Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust the heat by adding more chilies if desired.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the Peri Peri sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Preheat the Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Grill Method: If grilling, place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
• Oven Method: If using the oven, place the chicken thighs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve

• Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with your choice of sides.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

• Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of rice or quinoa pairs well with the bold flavors of the Peri Peri chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve with grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a citrus dressing complements the spicy chicken.
• Bread: Offer crusty bread or naan to soak up the delicious Peri Peri sauce.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

• Adjust the Heat: Customize the heat level by using more or fewer chilies based on your preference.
• Marinate for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Grill for Smokiness: Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor that enhances the Peri Peri sauce.
• Use Different Cuts: This recipe works well with other chicken cuts like breasts or drumsticks.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

• Peri Peri Chicken Wings: Use the same marinade on chicken wings for a great party snack.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or halloumi for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Mild Version: Use fewer chilies and add a bit of honey to the marinade for a milder, sweeter version.
• Peri Peri Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into pieces and thread onto skewers for a fun, easy-to-eat option.

How to Store Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

• Cool Completely: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

Oven Reheating:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

Microwave Reheating:

• Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals until warmed through, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver Easy Peri Peri Chicken less spicy?

Yes, to make Jamie Oliver Easy Peri Peri Chicken less spicy, reduce the amount of red chilies in the Peri Peri sauce or remove the seeds from the chilies before blending. Adding a bit of honey or extra lemon juice can also help balance the heat.

What sides go well with Peri Peri Chicken?

Peri Peri Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, and a fresh green salad. Crusty bread or naan is also great for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs in this recipe. They may cook faster, so monitor the cooking time closely to prevent them from drying out.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in the Peri Peri sauce for at least 4 hours. If you have the time, marinating overnight will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken more deeply, resulting in a richer taste.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Easy Peri Peri Chicken is a flavorful, spicy dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you grill it for a smoky finish or bake it for convenience, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious meal that brings a taste of Peri Peri to your kitchen!

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken Thighs
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Thighs Curry
• Jamie Oliver Vegetarian Lasagne Recipe
• Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shanks

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