Piri Piri Chicken Thighs Recipe 

How to Make Piri Piri Chicken Thighs

1. Prepare the Piri Piri Marinade

• Start by making the piri piri marinade. In a blender or food processor, combine the red chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and honey. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
• Blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined. You should have a vibrant, spicy marinade that’s rich with flavor.

2. Marinate the Chicken

• Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the piri piri marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but the longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.

3. Cook the Chicken Thighs

You can cook your Piri Piri Chicken Thighs either on the grill or in the oven—both methods deliver delicious results.

Grilling Method:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and drizzle them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 5–7 minutes, until the skin is crispy and slightly charred.
• Flip the chicken thighs and grill for an additional 7–10 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Baste with extra marinade while grilling, if desired, for even more flavor.

Oven Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time for even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the skin is crispy.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze the lemon over the chicken just before eating for an extra burst of citrusy freshness.

5. Enjoy!

• Serve your Piri Piri Chicken Thighs with your favorite sides. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even fries for a more indulgent meal. You can also serve it over rice or couscous to soak up the delicious marinade.

Tips for the Perfect Piri Piri Chicken Thighs

• Adjust the Spice Level: The heat in this dish comes from the chili peppers. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or opt for a milder variety. On the other hand, if you like things hot, increase the number of chilies or add extra cayenne pepper.
• Use Bone-In, Skin-On Thighs: While you can use boneless chicken, bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for this recipe. The skin crisps up beautifully while keeping the meat juicy, and the bone adds extra flavor during cooking.
• Make Extra Marinade: If you have leftover marinade, you can reserve it to use as a dipping sauce or drizzle over the cooked chicken. Just make sure to bring it to a boil before using it as a sauce to ensure it’s safe.
• Grill Over Medium Heat: When grilling, medium-high heat works best for getting crispy skin without burning the chicken. It’s also important to avoid moving the chicken too much—let it sear and form a nice char before flipping.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender, juicy bite every time.

Why You’ll Love Piri Piri Chicken Thighs

• Bold and Zesty: The combination of chili, lemon, garlic, and spices creates a marinade that’s bursting with bold, zesty flavors. It’s perfect for spice lovers!
• Juicy and Tender: Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and tender, making them perfect for absorbing all the flavors of the piri piri marinade.
• Versatile: Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or pan-frying, this recipe is versatile and can be cooked to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weeknight dinners to BBQs with friends, Piri Piri Chicken Thighs make a great addition to any meal.

Conclusion

Piri Piri Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, spicy, and satisfying dish that will spice up any meal. With a perfectly balanced marinade of fiery chili, tangy lemon, and aromatic spices, these chicken thighs are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether grilled or roasted, this recipe offers a satisfying meal full of bold flavors and heat.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both exotic and comforting. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, a casual dinner, or a weeknight meal, these Piri Piri Chicken Thighs are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!