– 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
– 1/4 cup peri peri sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Creating Baked Peri Peri Chicken can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine peri peri sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the whole chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Seal or cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Arrange the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place it on a baking tray or roasting pan, skin-side up.
5. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy. Baste with leftover marinade halfway through for added flavor.
6. Rest the Chicken: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
7. Garnish and Serve: After resting, garnish with fresh parsley and carve the chicken into pieces. Serve alongside your favorite sides.