Chicken Wings with Peri Peri Sauce
Description:
This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken wings coated in a fiery, tangy peri peri sauce — a vibrant blend of African and Portuguese flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these wings pack a punch with their spicy, smoky, and slightly citrusy notes. The marinade and sauce use fresh chili peppers (or chili powder), garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika for a well-rounded flavor profile.
Total Time:
Preparation: 15 minutes
Marinating: 1 hour (optional but recommended for deeper flavor)
Cooking: 25-30 minutes
Total: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Wings:
1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken wings, tips removed and wings separated into flats and drumettes
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Peri Peri Sauce:
4-6 fresh red chili peppers (bird’s eye chilies or any hot chili), or 2 tsp red chili flakes
4 garlic cloves
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
2 tbsp red wine vinegar or white vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar (optional, balances heat)
Salt to taste
Equipment:
Mixing bowl
Blender or food processor
Baking tray or grill
Oven or grill
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peri Peri Sauce
Blend ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the chili peppers, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, sugar, and salt. Blend until smooth.
Taste and adjust: Adjust salt and chili level to your preference. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more olive oil.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Wings
Clean and dry: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels.
Season and coat: Place wings in a large bowl. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour half of the peri peri sauce over the wings and toss well to coat evenly.
Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
Step 3: Cook the Wings
Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange wings on the rack in a single layer.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until wings are cooked through and skin is crispy.
Grill Method:
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Grill wings for 20-25 minutes, turning frequently to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove wings from oven/grill and brush with remaining peri peri sauce for an extra kick.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dip or side salad.
Tips:
For milder heat, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before blending.
If you want extra crispy wings, broil for the last 2-3 minutes (watch carefully to avoid burning).
Serve with garlic mayo, ranch dressing, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance t
he spice