Peri Peri Chicken Drumsticks

Hey there, spice lover! Get ready to fire up your kitchen with Peri Peri Chicken Drumsticks, a dish that’s bold, zesty, and bursting with fiery flavor. These juicy drumsticks are marinated in a tangy, spicy peri peri sauce that’ll have you licking your fingers and dreaming of the next bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ, this recipe brings the heat and the heart of Portuguese-African cuisine right to your table. Trust me, you’re going to love this—it’s a flavor explosion that’s as fun to make as it is to eat

Why You’ll Love Peri Peri Chicken Drumsticks

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family meal, a lively gathering with friends, or just craving something with a kick, these drumsticks are your go-to. Here’s why they’re a favorite:

• Versatile: Ideal for weeknights or as a showstopper at a barbecue. These drumsticks shine whether baked, grilled, or even air-fried.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable chicken drumsticks and pantry staples, proving you don’t need fancy ingredients for a meal that tastes like a global adventure.
• Quick and Easy: Simple steps that even beginners can master. The marinade does most of the work, so you can kick back while the flavors develop.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your taste—mild for the kids or fiery for the thrill-seekers. You can make it your own!
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with everyone, from spice enthusiasts to those who just love a good, juicy chicken drumstick.

Ingredients in Peri Peri Chicken Drumsticks

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Here’s the magic of these drumsticks—it’s all about a handful of ingredients that create a bold, unforgettable sauce. Let’s break it down:

Chicken Drumsticks

The star of the dish. Bone-in, skin-on drumsticks stay juicy and tender, with crispy skin that soaks up the spicy marinade perfectly.

Red Chili Peppers

The heart of the peri peri sauce. Fresno or jalapeño peppers bring the heat, while African bird’s eye chilis are traditional for an authentic fiery kick. Adjust to your spice tolerance

Roasted Red Bell Pepper

Adds a sweet, smoky depth to the sauce, balancing the heat with a touch of richness.

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves give the marinade a warm, savory backbone that makes every bite irresistible.

Lemon Juice

A bright, zesty squeeze of lemon juice adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken.

Olive Oil

Smooths out the sauce and helps it cling to the drumsticks, ensuring a glossy, flavorful coating.

Paprika

Sweet or smoked paprika adds color and a subtle smokiness that complements the spice.

Oregano

Dried oregano brings an earthy, herbaceous note that ties the marinade together.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Make the Peri Peri Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine red chili peppers, roasted red bell pepper, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting with a splash of water if too thick. Taste and tweak the spice or seasoning to your liking. Set aside a small portion for serving.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the drumsticks in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour most of the peri peri sauce over the chicken, reserving some for dipping. Massage the marinade into the drumsticks, ensuring they’re well-coated. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top for crispier results. This setup lets air circulate for that golden, crunchy skin.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Lightly grease the wire rack to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a rack, a greased baking dish works fine, but flip the drumsticks halfway for even cooking.

Assemble the Dish

Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and arrange them on the wire rack. Discard any used marinade from the bag. Sprinkle with a pinch of extra paprika for color, if desired.

Cook to Perfection

Bake for 35-45 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway, until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra char, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Finishing Touches

Remove from the oven and let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Drizzle with a little reserved peri peri sauce for an extra kick.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with the reserved sauce on the side for dipping. Pair with your favorite sides and dig in—this is flavor you’ll want to savor!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
• Total Time: 50-60 minutes (plus marinating time)

How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken Drumsticks

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad or coleslaw with a light vinaigrette to cool down the spice.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic naan to soak up the extra sauce.
• Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of garlic aioli or perinaise (peri peri sauce mixed with mayo) adds a creamy, cooling contrast.
• Vegetable Sides: Grilled corn, roasted potatoes, or sautéed green beans make colorful, hearty sides that complement the bold flavors.
• As a Standalone: These drumsticks are bold enough to shine on their own. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Presentation matters too! Serve on a rustic platter with lemon wedges and a small bowl of extra peri peri sauce for dipping to make the meal feel festive.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: Make the peri peri sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor.
• Spice It Up: For extra heat, add more chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne. For milder flavor, use fewer chilis or remove their seeds.
• Dietary Adjustments: Swap olive oil for avocado oil or use a low-sodium version of the sauce for dietary needs.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep the skin crispy.
• Double the Batch: Make extra sauce and freeze it for up to 3 months. It’s great for marinating shrimp, pork, or veggies for future meals.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute chicken drumsticks with another cut?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs, wings, or even a whole chicken work great. Adjust cooking time for smaller or larger cuts.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, marinate the chicken and make the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the fridge and bake when ready.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze cooked drumsticks with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes to keep the skin crispy.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Double the marinade and use a larger baking sheet. Ensure drumsticks aren’t crowded for even cooking.

Q7: Can I use store-bought peri peri sauce?
A7: Yes, for a shortcut! Look for a quality brand like Nando’s, but homemade sauce gives the freshest flavor.

Q8: Can I grill instead of bake?
A8: Absolutely! Grill over medium-high heat (350-400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until cooked through.

Q9: How can I make it less spicy?
A9: Use fewer chili peppers, remove their seeds, or swap for milder peppers like red bell peppers for a gentler flavor.

Q10: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A10: Yes! Use the peri peri sauce to marinate tofu, mushrooms, or cauliflower steaks and bake or grill as directed.

Conclusion

Peri Peri Chicken Drumsticks are the kind of dish that turns any meal into a flavor-packed adventure. With their juicy meat, crispy skin, and bold, spicy sauce, they’re a guaranteed hit whether you’re cooking for your family or firing up the grill for friends. This recipe is all about big taste with minimal effort, bringing the vibrant spirit of Portuguese-African cuisine to your kitchen. So grab your drumsticks, crank up the heat, and get ready to savor a dish that’s as exciting to eat as it is to make. Happy cooking, you flavor rockstar!

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