Savor the Flavor of South Africa: A Delicious Peri Peri Chicken Recipe
If you’re a fan of spicy, flavorful chicken, you’re in luck! Today, I’m sharing my family’s secret recipe for mouth-watering peri peri chicken, paired with scrumptious grilled sandwiches. This South African-inspired dish is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you.
The Magic of Peri Peri Powder
Peri peri powder, a blend of spices, is the key to this recipe’s success. You can easily find it online at various South African food stores within the U.S. If you like a little heat in your meals, you’ll love the kick this powder adds.
A Simple yet Impressive Meal
This recipe yields 2-4 servings and takes approximately 2 hours to prepare, with only 30 minutes of active cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Gather Your Ingredients
- 2-4 game hens (cut in half) or chicken legs and thighs
- Olive oil
- Limes (1-2 per bird)
- Peri peri powder
- Firm, thick-sliced bread (brioche loaves work well)
- Tomato
- Onion
- Cheese (aged cheddar is a great choice)
- Basil
- Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic (2 cloves per 1/2 hen, mashed or finely chopped)
Marinate and Grill to Perfection
In a heavy-duty ziplock bag, combine the chicken, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, and peri peri powder. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Refrigerate for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Meanwhile, prepare the sandwiches by buttering thick slices of bread on both sides. Add tomato, onion, cheese, basil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful combination.
Grill and Serve
Preheat your grill and cook the chicken and sandwiches until golden brown. If you want to expedite the sandwich-cooking process, wrap them in aluminum foil and heat them in the oven for a few minutes before grilling.
The Perfect Pairing
Enjoy your peri peri chicken with a cold South African beer or two for the ultimate culinary experience.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this recipe your own. Some ideas include adding ham, caramelized onions, or fennel to your sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
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