How to make Piri Piri Chicken

Piri piri chicken is a spicy and flavorful dish that has become an integral part of Mozambique's cultural identity. It's a mouthwatering grilled or oven-roasted chicken delicacy that is marinated in a mix of herbs and spices that are local to Mozambique. The marinade adds a unique flavor to the chicken making it juicy, tender, and spicy. This dish has a long-standing history and has become an iconic Mozambican dish.

Origin and History

Piri piri chicken has its roots in both Africa and Portugal. The traditional dish originated in Mozambique, a country located in southeastern Africa. The name itself is derived from a Swahili word that translates 'pepper-pepper' in English. The dish draws its influence from the years of Portuguese colonial rule that ended in 1975. With the Portuguese influence, Mozambican cuisine evolved and introduced new ingredients like chilies, bay leaves, coriander, and cloves, among others. 

Piri piri chicken is a cultural staple in Mozambique and is eaten with pride during special occasions and at festivities. It is made by grilling or roasting chicken seasoned with a marinade made with piri piri chili, garlic, onion, salt, and olive oil. The marinade adds a unique flavoring to the chicken that makes it distinctive and popular.

How to Make Piri Piri Chicken

Piri Piri Chicken as a dish is known for its robust flavor and taste. The recipe to make Piri Piri Chicken is simple, easy and quick. Below is the recipe to make Piri Piri Chicken.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped

- 3-5 Piri Piri Chilies (or 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper)

- 1/2 cup Olive Oil

- 1 tablespoon Paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon Salt

- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken by washing it with vinegar and water, then pat dry with paper towels.

2. Cut the chicken into pieces.

3. In a blender, blend the garlic, ginger, peppers, olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

4. Rub the chicken pieces with the marinade and let it rest for at least an hour in a ziplock bag or an airtight container in the refrigerator.

5. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F.

6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

7. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

8. Serve with rice and vegetables, either grilled or raw.

Variations

There are several ways to enjoy Piri Piri chicken. Here are some recipe variations:

- Piri Piri Prawns: Substitute chicken with prawns and marinate them for at least 30 minutes.

- Piri Piri Vegetables: Use the marinade to season vegetables and grill or roast them for a vegetarian option.

- Milder Version: Decrease the number of Piri Piri chilies or substitute with a more milder pepper-based on your preference if you can't tolerate much heat.

Health Benefits

Piri Piri contains capsaicin which is found in several peppers. Capsaicin helps increase the rate of your metabolism, which can lead to weight loss. Additionally, it can reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation thanks to capsaicin's anti-inflammatory properties. The chicken is a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that aid in building and maintaining your body.

Fun Facts

- The Portugese introduced the chilies that are used to make the dish to Portugal, Africa, and India.

- Piri Piri Chili Pepper has variations in heat, and it's important to note the level of heat you prefer when making the marinade, so the dish isn't too spicy for you to eat

- It can be served with vegetables or fries and is a popular weekend meal enjoyed by families.

Conclusion

Piri Piri chicken is a delicious and spicy dish that is popular across Mozambique and other countries around the world. It's a dish that has its roots in both Africa and Portugal, and it's become an iconic Mozambican dish over the years. The dish has many variations, can be enjoyed in numerous ways, and is believed to have several health benefits. Whether you prefer your chicken grilled or oven-baked, Piri Piri Chicken is an exciting culinary experience that is sure to make your mouth water!