peri peri bbq chicken

Peri Peri Barbeque Chicken with a Fiery Homemade Marinade

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When the grill is hot and you’re in the mood for something fiery, flavorful, and unforgettable, Peri Peri BBQ Chicken is the ultimate choice. 

Peri peri, also spelled piri piri or even perry perry, is a hot chili pepper (African bird’s eye chili) turned iconic sauce that originated from Portuguese settlers in Southern Africa. 

As someone who has experimented with countless marinades and rubs, I can confidently say peri peri is not just a recipe it’s an experience. The rich blend of chili, garlic, citrus, and smoky BBQ flavors transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering explosion.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through making the ultimate peri peri barbeque chicken, complete with homemade marinade, grilling techniques, personal cooking hacks, and pro chef tips. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Peri Peri Sauce:

  • 1 red bell pepper, quartered
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
  • 2-4 red African bird’s eye chilies, stemmed and seeded (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil

For the BBQ Chicken:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), spatch cocked or cut into pieces
  • Peri Peri Sauce (as prepared above)

Step-by-Step BBQ Peri Peri Chicken Recipe

1. Make the Peri Peri Sauce:

Grill the red pepper and onion until charred. Let them steam in a bowl covered with plastic wrap for 10 minutes, then peel and roughly chop. Blend with garlic, chilies, herbs, lemon juice, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly add olive oil until smooth.

Peri Peri Sauce

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Coat the chicken with about ¾ of the sauce (save the rest for basting). Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

3. Grill the Chicken:

Preheat grill to medium (350°F/175°C). Grill chicken skin-side up over indirect heat, covered, for 45–60 minutes. Baste with reserved sauce every 15 minutes. Finish over direct heat for 5–10 minutes until skin is crispy and slightly charred.

4. Serve:

Let chicken rest 10 minutes, carve, and serve hot with extra peri peri sauce.

Pro Tips from Famous Chefs

“Always marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to truly penetrate the meat.” Gordon Ramsay

“Add a touch of honey to balance the chili kick it enhances the caramelization during grilling.”  Jamie Oliver

“Sear over high heat first, then finish on low to lock in juices while achieving perfect char.” Aaron Franklin (BBQ Pitmaster)

 What to Serve with Peri Peri BBQ Chicken

Pairing sides with bold dishes like this helps create a well-rounded meal. Here are some easy and delicious ideas:

  • Grilled Corn on the Cob – brushed with garlic butter
  •  Roasted Baby Potatoes – seasoned with rosemary and lemon zest
  • Fresh Garden Salad – crisp lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes with lemon vinaigrette
  •  Lemon Herb Rice – balances the heat with fresh citrus flavor
  • Warm Pita or Flatbread – great for wrapping the chicken and soaking up juices
  •  Garlic Aioli or Yogurt Dip – cooling and creamy contrast to the spice
 What to Serve with Peri Peri BBQ Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold Flavors: Spicy, garlicky, and smoky all in one bite.
  • Versatile: Perfect for BBQ, oven roasting, or even air frying.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A hit at family dinners, cookouts, or game nights.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate ahead, cook fresh, or store leftovers for wraps or salads.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a fiery kick to your next BBQ, this Peri Peri BBQ Chicken is the perfect choice. It’s a bold, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

 I hope you like recipe and try the recipe at your home at let tell us in the comment section.

FAQS

  1. How to barbecue peri peri chicken?
     Marinate chicken in peri peri sauce, then grill over medium heat until charred and fully cooked.
  2. What is peri peri chicken made of?
     It’s made using chicken marinated in a blend of chilies, garlic, lemon, vinegar, oil, and spices.
  3. What is piri piri made of?
     Piri piri is made from bird’s eye chilies, garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, oil, and herbs.
  4. What goes with peri peri chicken in a sandwich?
     Pair it with lettuce, tomato, mayo, caramelized onions, and a soft bun or baguette.

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