Portuguese Piri-Piri Chicken
How to order Piri-Piri Chicken in Portugal
Experience the irresistible flavors of Portuguese Piri-Piri Chicken, locally known as “Frango Assado com Piri-Piri,” a dish renowned for its fiery kick and authentic taste. Whether you’re picking up a quick bite from a local supermarket or enjoying a sumptuous meal at a traditional Portuguese Grill House (Churrascaria), Piri-Piri Chicken offers an affordable and mouthwatering option. Prices range from a budget-friendly 7€ for a supermarket takeaway to around 25€ per person in a restaurant.
What to Look For When Ordering Piri-Piri Chicken
When browsing menus, you’ll encounter the term “Frango Assado,” which means “Roasted Chicken.” Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your meal with a side of “molho” — a spicy Piri-Piri sauce that combines fiery chili peppers with a blend of aromatic spices. This sauce is essential for elevating the dish to new heights of flavor.
What does Piri-Piri mean?
The term “Piri-Piri” refers to a hot sauce made from vibrant red chili peppers. Despite its popular association with Nando’s, this spice has its roots in Southern Africa. In Mozambique, a former Portuguese colony, the chili is known as Piri-Piri, which means “pepper-pepper” in Swahili.
In Portugal, Piri-Piri is readily available in both sauces and powders at prices ranging from 0,59€ to 2,99€. This little chili packs a punch and is affectionately known as Peri-Peri or “African devil,” highlighting its intense heat and unique flavor.
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Is Piri-Piri healthy?
Piri-Piri Chicken can be a healthy choice, thanks to the capsaicin in chili peppers, which may boost metabolism, aid weight loss, and alleviate pain and inflammation. However, be cautious of sodium levels in commercially prepared Piri-Piri sauces, which can be high. Opt for homemade or low-sodium versions when possible to enjoy the health benefits without compromising on taste.
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How many calories Peri-Peri chicken have?
A single serving of Peri-Peri chicken typically contains approximately 1,146 calories.
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What Makes Portuguese Piri-Piri Chicken Unique?
Portuguese Piri-Piri Chicken stands out due to its use of young, tender chickens and a distinct grilling method. Traditionally prepared whole and grilled over charcoal, the chicken is marinated a day ahead to infuse deep, rich flavors. The result is a succulent, juicy chicken with a crispy skin, often served with a spicy drizzle of hot sauce.
The birthplace of this delectable dish is Restaurant Ramires in Guia, Algarve. This town is now famous for its Peri-Piri Chicken and hosts the annual Piri-Piri Chicken Festival, Festa do Frango da Guia, each August.
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What is Peri-Peri chicken traditionally served?
Piri-Piri Chicken is traditionally served with crispy chips, fluffy white rice, and a fresh salad. This classic combination balances the spicy heat of the chicken with a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Is Piri-Piri chicken gluten-free?
Yes, Piri-Piri Chicken is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Cook Piri-Piri Chicken at Home
Try this authentic recipe for a delicious homemade Piri-Piri Chicken:
INGREDIENT
1 chicken, cut in the middle
1/8 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of chili paste
1/8 cup of white wine vinegar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 bay leaves
3 tablespoons of Piri-Piri sauce
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine all the ingredients without the chicken in a large bowl.
2. Add the chicken, and mix it well in the sauce.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours, turning the chicken occasionally.
4. Keep the marinade when you remove the chicken and place the chicken skin side down on a grill (barbecue).
5. Turn and brush the chicken with the marinade and let it cook for 30 to 40 minutes or until well browned.
Where can you taste Piri-Piri chicken in Lisbon?
For the finest Piri-Piri Chicken in Lisbon, visit “A Valenciana,” widely regarded as the best place in the city to savor this dish. Expect perfectly grilled chicken that’s moist, tender, and complemented by a crispy skin.
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