🍲 Peri Peri Chicken with Cajun Potato Wedges 🌶️
This vibrant and spicy Peri Peri Chicken, paired with crispy Cajun potato wedges, is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Mozambique right to your table. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!
🌍 What Is Peri Peri Chicken?
Peri Peri Chicken, also known as Pili Pili Chicken, originates from Mozambique, Africa. This dish features marinated chicken cooked to perfection, infused with a spicy and flavorful sauce made from African bird's eye chilies. The addition of Cajun potato wedges makes it a complete meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
🧾 Ingredients
**Base:**
- 1 whole or half chicken
- 3 African bird's eye chilies
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of coriander
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup cooking oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
**Optional:**
- Cajun seasoning (for potato wedges)
- 5-6 large potatoes
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Peri Peri Sauce:**
- Remove the green stems from the African bird's eye chilies and place them in a food processor.
- Cut the red bell pepper in half, remove the core, and chop into large strips. Add to the processor.
- Cut the onion into large wedges and add to the processor.
- Add the garlic cloves and half a bunch of coriander to the processor.
- Grate in the lemon zest (avoid the white part) and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon.
- Add salt, paprika, and cooking oil.
- Blend until smooth and set aside.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:**
- Clean and wash the chicken, then place it in a bowl.
- Pour the prepared peri peri sauce over the chicken, ensuring all sides are fully coated.
- Reserve some sauce for basting later.
- Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for best results).
3. **Prepare the Cajun Potato Wedges:**
- Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges.
- Rinse the wedges under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a bowl, combine the potato wedges with Cajun seasoning and 2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
- Toss until evenly coated.
4. **Assemble for Baking:**
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) for 10 minutes.
- Line a baking tray with foil, creating a boat shape on one side.
- Place the marinated chicken in the foil boat and arrange the potato wedges on the other side in a single layer.
5. **Bake:**
- Bake the chicken for 45-50 minutes and the potato wedges for 35-40 minutes.
- Flip the potato wedges halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Baste the chicken with the reserved peri peri sauce halfway through cooking.
🍽️ How to Serve
Serve the juicy peri peri chicken alongside the crispy Cajun potato wedges. For an extra touch, sprinkle the wedges with a pinch of salt. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, fries, or a fresh salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika in your peri peri sauce.
- If you have leftover peri peri sauce, store it in the fridge for up to a week. It can be used to marinate other proteins like beef or fish.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This
This Peri Peri Chicken with Cajun Potato Wedges is not only bursting with flavor but also offers a delightful contrast between the tender, spicy chicken and the crispy, seasoned potatoes. It's a finger-licking meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household!
