Zesty Piri Piri Chicken with Cilantro-Lime Rice 🌶🍗

 New Recipe

Zesty Piri Piri Chicken with Cilantro-Lime Rice 🌶🍗

Ingredients:

• For the Piri Piri Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 3-4 fresh red chilies (or adjust based on desired heat level)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless)

• For the Cilantro-Lime Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (washed and drained)
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For Serving:

  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Piri Piri Marinade:

   • In a food processor or blender, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, red chilies, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adjusting the heat by adding more chilies if desired.
   • Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Cook the Cilantro-Lime Rice:

   • In a medium pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
   • Add the washed rice to the pot, stirring to coat it in the oil, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
   • Pour in the water (or chicken broth), bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in the chopped cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Grill the Piri Piri Chicken:

   • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). If using bone-in chicken, make sure the thickest part of the meat is fully cooked.

4. Serve:

   • Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes. Serve the Piri Piri chicken alongside the cilantro-lime rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges on the side.

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Optional Variations:

• Spicy Kick: If you want an even spicier version, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Grilled Vegetables: Pair the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions to complete the meal.
• Veggie Option: Use tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken for a plant-based alternative.