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Nando’s Peri Peri Chicken Copycat Recipe

Close-up of grilled Nando's Peri Peri Chicken Copycat pieces, featuring charred skin and vibrant orange-red seasoning, served on a white plate.
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Make authentic tasting Peri Peri Chicken at home using this recipe that replicates the signature marinade and sauce flavor profile of Nando’s.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breast)
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
  • 1/2 cup Peri Peri peppers (fresh or dried, soaked), or 1/4 cup Peri Peri paste
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining the orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, vinegar, honey, and thyme in a blender. Add the Peri Peri peppers or paste. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the chicken pieces in a large, non-reactive bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  3. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  6. Grill the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is nicely charred.
  7. For extra flavor, baste the chicken with a small amount of reserved, unused marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • If you cannot find fresh Peri Peri peppers, use a high-quality bottled Peri Peri sauce to substitute for the peppers and some of the vinegar in the marinade.
  • For a Lemon & Herb flavor, omit the cayenne pepper and increase the lemon juice slightly.
  • Serve with homemade thick-cut fries and a side of corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdreams.com/nandos-peri-peri-chicken-copycat/