Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken

When it comes to flavor-packed chicken dishes, Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken takes center stage. This recipe is a celebration of spices and citrus, creating a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with zest and heat. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. With juicy chicken pieces marinated in a vibrant peri peri sauce, every bite is a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The beauty of Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The marinade, made from fresh garlic, citrus juices, and a blend of spices, elevates the chicken to new heights. You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe not just for its taste, but also for the ease of preparation. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving at gatherings, ensuring that there will always be something delicious on the table.

Ingredients at a Glance

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

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowl – to combine the marinade ingredients.
• Whisk – for blending the marinade smoothly.
• Baking dish – to bake the chicken in the oven.
• Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
• Sharp knife – for chopping garlic and parsley.

Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice and zest, orange juice, olive oil, sweet paprika, black pepper, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and salt. Whisk together until well combined. The aroma will already be tantalizing!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated well. You can use your hands to rub the marinade into the chicken for maximum flavor. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but ideally overnight for the best results.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for achieving crispy skin while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Once the oven is preheated, remove the chicken from the fridge. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Pair it with your favorite sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

International Equivalents

• 3 cloves garlic – approximately 9 grams
• 1 lemon – approximately 100 grams
• 1 orange – approximately 130 grams
• ½ cup olive oil – approximately 120 milliliters
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika – approximately 5 grams
• 2.2 lb chicken – approximately 1 kilogram

What I Learned Testing

• Marinating overnight really enhances the flavor profile, allowing the spices to penetrate the chicken fully.
• Using a combination of citrus juices adds a refreshing brightness that balances the spice level.
• The skin-on chicken pieces retain moisture during baking, resulting in a succulent bite.
• Adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes allows you to customize the heat level to your preference.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you want to freeze it, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, where it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This will help restore some of that crispy texture.

Ask the Chef

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken pieces?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can substitute it with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the 3 cloves of garlic.

Can I make this dish on the grill instead of the oven?

Absolutely! This marinade is fantastic for grilling. Just preheat your grill and cook the chicken pieces over medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked.

What sides pair well with Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken?

Great side options include fluffy rice, grilled vegetables, a crisp salad, or even some warm pita bread to soak up the delicious juices.

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Let’s Eat

Creating Oven Baked Peri Peri Chicken is not just about the cooking; it’s an experience that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal fuss. The combination of garlic, citrus, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish that is both satisfying and vibrant. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the compliments from your family and friends as they savor every bite of your delicious peri peri chicken!