Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a perfectly baked meal wafting through the house, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience with Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken. As I prepared this dish one evening, the anticipation was overwhelming. The vibrant spices, the tangy citrus, and that hint of smokiness made my mouth water. It was a cozy night, and I was eager to share this delightful dish with my family. The first bite transported us to a sun-soaked terrace, enjoying the warmth and flavor of this delectable chicken. You might find that it becomes a family favorite, just like it did for us!

What You’ll Need for Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

This recipe showcases a wonderful harmony of ingredients that work together to create a mouthwatering dish. The key players include zesty citrus fruits and aromatic spices that help to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor. Together, they create a melange that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare.

• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 1 orange (juice only)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (more if you like it spicy)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2.2 lb chicken pieces – skin on
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley to serve

Step by Step Guide for Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

Cooking Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken is a delightful process that combines anticipation and flavor. Let’s dive into the steps together, as I share how to create this stunning dish. With each step, you’ll see how easy it is to achieve that beautiful aroma and taste.

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C/390ºF. This step is essential to ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, orange juice, and olive oil. Stir them together until well mixed. This will be the base of your marinade, and the vibrant colors should already entice you.
3. Add to this mixture the zest of the lemon, along with sweet paprika, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Mix well until all the spices are incorporated. The aroma at this point is already mouthwatering.
4. Pour the marinade into a plastic bowl or a large ziplock bag. It’s time to add the star of the show, your chicken pieces. Ensure they are thoroughly coated with the marinade, and allow them to marinate for at least an hour. For the best results, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
5. After marinating, lay the chicken out in a baking dish. Sprinkle salt over the top. This might seem simple, but it elevates the flavors beautifully during baking.
6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; the skin should become crispy and golden while the inside remains juicy.
7. Halfway through, consider basting the chicken with the pan juices. This will enhance its flavor and keep it moist. It’s a simple step that makes a world of difference.
8. When your timer goes off, check that the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 75°C/165ºF. If that’s achieved, you’re good to go!
9. Carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help in retaining the juices. Finally, serve your Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley for that extra pop of color and flavor.

Recipe Variations about Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

There are so many ways to play with this recipe! Whether you want to swap out ingredients or try a different protein, let your creativity shine. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Try different meats: Substitute chicken with turkey or even hearty vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some hearty vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini with the chicken for a complete one-pan meal.
• Experiment with citrus: Incorporate other citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it a wrap: Serve the baked chicken in wraps with fresh veggies and sauces for an easy lunch option.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking for up to three months.
• Pairing: This dish goes well with couscous, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a light meal.

Serving Ideas for Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

When it comes to serving Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your meal:

• Classic Rice: Serve your chicken over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all those delicious juices.
• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crunchy salad tossed with your favorite dressing for a refreshing contrast.
• Wrap It Up: Slice the baked chicken and serve it in wraps with fresh vegetables and sauces for a fun twist.
• Roasted Veggies: Complement the dish with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and healthy addition.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for parties. Serve it as part of a larger spread with various sides to impress your guests.
• Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra parsley on top just before serving for a fresh touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken is a stunning dish that combines bold flavors and simple preparation, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s a meal that you can whip up with ease, and it guarantees to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe tonight and discover the joy it brings to your dinner table!

Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

Satisfy your cravings with Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken, a dish bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. This easy weeknight dinner features juicy chicken marinated in zesty citrus and spices. With its delightful aroma and mouthwatering taste, you'll want to make this recipe tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: African

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 whole lemon (juice and zest)
• 1 whole orange (juice only)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (more if you like it spicy)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2.2 lb chicken pieces - skin on
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley to serve

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C/390ºF.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, orange juice, and olive oil. Stir them together until well mixed.
3. Add to this mixture the zest of the lemon, along with sweet paprika, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Mix well until all the spices are incorporated.
4. Pour the marinade into a plastic bowl or a large ziplock bag. Add the chicken pieces and leave to marinate for at least an hour but overnight will give you a great flavor.
5. Lay the chicken out in a baking dish, sprinkle salt over the top, and cook in the oven for 45 minutes.
6. Halfway through, carefully baste the chicken with the pan juices.
7. When your timer goes off, check that the chicken is cooked through.
8. Carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest before serving.
9. Serve your Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking for up to three months.
• Pairing: This dish goes well with couscous, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad for a light meal.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.