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Irresistible Portuguese Piri Piri Chicken

Experience the fiery flavors of Portuguese Piri Piri Chicken, perfectly charred on the grill with a tantalizing blend of spices. This easy-to-prepare dish is perfect for a flavorful dinner experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 47 minutes
Course Dinner
Servings 4 Servings

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Basting brush
  • Sharp knife for cutting chicken

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade

  • 1 whole chicken about 3–4 lbs / 1.4–1.8 kg, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 4 red chili peppers chopped, adjust based on desired heat
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Accompaniments

  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Fresh bread or rice

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, chopped chili peppers, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This vibrant marinade will infuse your chicken with incredible flavor.
  • Tip: For less heat, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before chopping.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  • Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Grill

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for achieving that perfect char.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill, skin-side down. Cook for 10-15 minutes on one side until nicely charred. Flip and continue to grill for another 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
  • Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, bread, or rice.

Notes

Pro tips:
  • Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your spice tolerance.
  • Add a touch of honey to the marinade for a hint of sweetness.
  • Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful contrast.
  • Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme in the marinade.
  • Save leftover marinade, boil it briefly, and use it as a sauce.