Piri-Piri Chicken
AI-generated image
Gluten-free Portuguese

Piri-Piri Chicken

Portuguese-style chicken marinated with garlic, lemon, smoked paprika, and fiery piri-piri, then roasted until lacquered and juicy. A gently simmered pepper sauce adds brightness and heat at the table.

65 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Pat the 8 chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels, trim any loose skin or fat, and arrange them skin-side up in a shallow dish. Sprinkle evenly with 5 g of the salt, rubbing it over both sides, then set aside while preparing the marinade.
2
Blend the piri-piri peppers, garlic, lemon zest and juice, 45 ml of the olive oil, vinegar, smoked paprika, oregano, and remaining salt until a coarse red paste forms.
3
Pour three-quarters of the marinade over the chicken and turn to coat every piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 12 hours.
4
Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan with the chicken stock. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, until slightly thickened and glossy. Do not use it uncooked after it has contacted the chicken.
5
Heat the oven to 220°C. Arrange the chicken skin-side up in a lightly oiled roasting pan and drizzle with the remaining 15 ml olive oil.
6
Roast for 35 to 45 minutes, basting once halfway with the simmered sauce, until the skin is deeply browned and the thickest piece reaches 74°C.
Roasted piri-piri chicken with deeply browned skin and glossy chili sauce. AI-generated image
7
Transfer the chicken to a board and rest for 8 minutes. Spoon the warm sauce over the pieces and serve with lemon wedges.
Piri-piri chicken served with warm chili sauce, lemon, rice, and salad. AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

A short simmer softens the garlic and peppers into a balanced sauce, while lemon and vinegar keep the rich chicken lively. Roasting concentrates the marinade into a smoky, spicy glaze.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store extra sauce separately for up to 4 days.

How to reheat it

Reheat covered in a 180°C oven until the thickest piece reaches 74°C, about 15 to 20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals with a splash of water.

Nutrition / serving

952kcal
70.78 gprotein
5.75 gcarbs
70.72 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 21 Aug 2026 · updated 21 Aug 2026