Nando’s, the renowned South African restaurant chain, has gained worldwide acclaim for its delicious Peri-Peri chicken. This iconic dish is known for its perfect blend of succulent chicken, spicy Peri-Peri sauce, and aromatic spices. While Nando’s keeps its exact recipe under wraps, we’ve embarked on a culinary adventure to create a homemade version that captures the essence of Nando’s Peri-Peri magic.
Ingredients
To start our journey, gather the following ingredients:
Whole chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds)
For the Peri-Peri Sauce:
10-12 red chili peppers (adjust for spice preference)
4 cloves of garlic
1 lemon (juiced)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt to taste
Marinade:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Peri-Peri Sauce:
Begin by deseeding the red chili peppers for a milder sauce.
In a blender, combine the deseeded chili peppers, garlic cloves, lemon juice, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and salt.
Gradually add olive oil while blending until a smooth sauce is achieved. Set aside.
Marinating the Chicken:
Clean and pat dry the whole chicken.
Make deep cuts or score the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Rub the marinade generously over the chicken, ensuring it reaches the cuts. Let it marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Grilling the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the marinated chicken on the grill, skin side down, for about 15-20 minutes or until the skin is golden and crispy.
Flip the chicken and continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear.
During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the prepared Peri-Peri sauce for an extra kick and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the grilled Peri-Peri chicken hot with additional Peri-Peri sauce on the side for those who crave more heat.
Accompany the dish with sides like Portuguese rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully embarked on a culinary journey to recreate the famous Nando’s Peri-Peri chicken in the comfort of your home. This homemade version captures the essence of Nando’s flavorful and spicy magic, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a delicious and memorable meal. Enjoy the tantalizing taste of Nando’s at home, and savor the satisfaction of mastering this iconic recipe.
