Peri Peri Charred Chicken Breast Recipe – Grilled or Oven Roasted for Bold Flavour

Spice up your dinner with this bold Peri Peri Charred Chicken Breast recipe, perfect for the grill or oven. Featuring a fiery homemade marinade made with red capsicum, garlic, and bird’s eye chilli, this dish delivers juicy, smoky flavour in every bite.

Peri Peri Charred Chicken Breast Recipe

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 180–200g each)

For the marinade:

• 2 red capsicums, chargrilled and peeled

• 4 garlic cloves

• 2 red bird’s eye chillies (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 60ml red wine vinegar

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 60ml olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade:
   In a blender or food processor, combine the chargrilled capsicums, garlic, chillies, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Marinate the chicken:
   Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to infuse.

3. Cooking options:

• Grilling:
  Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C and the outside is charred and caramelised.

• Oven roasting:
  Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan-forced). Place the marinated chicken breasts on a lined baking tray. Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. For extra char, finish under the grill for 2–3 minutes.

4. Rest and serve:
   Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or peri peri sauce for extra heat.

Tips:

• Adjust the number of chillies to control the heat level.

• For a smokier flavour, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the marinade.

• This recipe pairs well with grilled corn, couscous, or a tangy coleslaw.

Enjoy this flavourful Peri Peri Charred Chicken Breast as a standout dish at your next gathering or as a delicious weeknight meal.