Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant and fiery flavors of Piri Piri Chicken Fillets! This Portuguese-inspired dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the heat and zest of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple marinade, you can transform ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave your guests begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to deliver juicy, flavorful chicken that’s sure to impress. Dive in to discover how to make this culinary delight that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken fillets
- 2 tablespoons piri piri sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove chicken fillets from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine piri piri sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Pat chicken fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning absorption and browning.
- Place chicken fillets in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Cook chicken fillets for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or additional piri piri sauce.
Tips
- Room Temperature Chicken: For the best results, take your chicken fillets out of the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for an even deeper flavor, consider letting it sit in the marinade for up to 4 hours. The longer, the better!
- Pat Dry for Perfection: Before marinating, pat the chicken fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for ensuring that the seasoning adheres well and that you achieve a beautiful browning when cooking.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
- Resting is Key: After cooking, let your chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Garnish for Flair: Serve your Piri Piri Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra piri piri sauce for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 207kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
