
Preparation time | 15 min |
Cooking Time | 45 min |
Ready In | 1 h |
Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Servings | 4 |
Piri piri chicken is a spicy and flavorful grilled chicken dish that is popular in many parts of the world, particularly in Portugal and some African countries. The dish is typically made by marinating chicken pieces in a spicy and tangy piri piri sauce before grilling or roasting them.
The name "piri piri" comes from the Swahili word "piri-piri," which means "pepper-pepper," referring to the spicy flavor of the dish. The sauce is made with a blend of hot peppers, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices such as paprika, oregano, and cumin. The exact recipe for piri piri sauce can vary depending on the region and the cook.
Piri piri chicken is often served with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or fries. It is also popular as a fast food dish and is often found in Portuguese-style chicken restaurants or food trucks.
Piri piri chicken is known for its bold and spicy flavor, and is a popular dish for those who enjoy spicy food. However, it can be adjusted to suit different taste preferences by adjusting the amount of spice in the sauce.
Ingredients

Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- The chicken should be washed and dried with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Piri Piri spice blend, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Peel the garlic cloves and cut the lemon into wedges.
- Put the chicken in a baking or roasting pan.
- Brush the chicken with the spice blend mixture, making sure to coat it well on all sides.
- Place the lemon wedges and garlic cloves around the chicken.
- Roast the chicken for about 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

