Introduction
Piri Piri chicken is a spicy and tangy dish that hails from the rich culinary traditions of Portugal and Africa. Known for its fiery and vibrant flavours, it's a favourite amongst spicy food lovers. With an air fryer, creating this mouth-watering dish at home is quicker and healthier than the traditional method. Let’s dive into a user-friendly recipe that will add a fiery flair to your meal.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 bird's eye chillies, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, pepper, and chopped bird's eye chillies. Adjust the heat by altering the amount of cayenne pepper or chillies.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-lock bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken starts to cook immediately, giving it a nice crispy finish.
- Cook the Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. It pairs well with rice, a salad, or your favourite side dish.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavour and crispy skin. Chicken thighs remain juicy during cooking, which is ideal for air frying.
- Marination Time: The longer you can marinate the chicken, the more intense the flavours will become. Overnight marination is recommended.
- Spice Levels: Tailor the heat according to your preference by adjusting the cayenne and chilli. You can also add a bit of honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness that complements the heat.
Conclusion
This Piri Piri chicken thighs recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a popular dish with a fiery twist, all made conveniently in an air fryer. With its tantalising flavours and juicy texture, it’s sure to become a hit at your dining table. Try it out for your next family meal or dinner party, and experience the deliciousness of homemade Piri Piri chicken.