Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Recipe & with Marinade 🔥

🍗️🎉 “Warning: This Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken recipe may cause spontaneous happy dances in the kitchen.” 💃🔥🍴

Let me tell you a little secret: I’ve always been obsessed with that bold, fiery flavor you get at Nando’s Menu — the kind that hits just right, makes your taste buds dance, and leaves you saying, “Okay, who needs takeout?”

So, after one too many cheeky cravings and a pantry full of promise, I rolled up my sleeves and decided to recreate Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Recipe from scratch. Spoiler alert: it was epic. 🙌

I’m not a professional chef — just a regular person with an unreasonable love for juicy, spicy chicken. But the moment I nailed this recipe, something changed. 

Nando's Peri-Peri Chicken Recipe
Homemade Nando’s vibes — juicy, spicy, and totally irresistible.

My kitchen didn’t just smell like a Nando’s — it felt like one. And I knew I had to share easy Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Recipe.

Nando's Peri-Peri Chicken

What is Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken?

Halal Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken is a flame-grilled chicken marinated in a spicy sauce made from African Bird’s Eye chili, garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s bold, zesty, and packed with flavor — the heart and soul of Nando’s South African-Portuguese cuisine

Ingredients for Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Recipe

Gather your kitchen warriors! These ingredients are simple, yet together they create something unforgettable.

For the Marinade

  • 4 chicken breasts (or thighs if you’re going for juicier bites — my fave!)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice (I lean toward lemon — it brightens everything)
  • 1 fresh red chili (or two if you’re wild like that 🌶️)
  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed like a boss
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds that subtle smokiness)
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Optional but recommended: 2 tbsp Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce (it’s a shortcut to flavor town)
Nandos Chicken Recipe Ingredients

Lemon & Herb Variation 🍋🌿

  • Replace chili with the zest of one lemon.
  • Add 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • Use mild paprika instead of smoked for a softer kic.k

“Sometimes, I’m in a fiery mood. Other days, I just want something fresh and zesty. This version lets me choose both!”

How to Make Peri-Peri Sauce for Chicken?

Want to go all-in homemade? This peri-peri sauce is spicy, tangy, and totally addictive — perfect for marinating or drizzling.

You’ll need:

  • 2 roasted red bell peppers
  • 2–3 bird’s eye chilies
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Blend everything until smooth. Taste and tweak the heat. Simmer for 5 mins if you want deeper flavor.

“Boom — homemade peri-peri magic in under 10 minutes.”

How to Make the Marinade (a.k.a. The Magic Potion)

Step-by-Step Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Marinade Recipe

  • Toss the garlic, chili, vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, paprika, oregano, and Nando’s sauce (if using) into a blender.
  • Blend until smooth. I mean smooth-no chunky bits here.
  • Pour it over the chicken in a large bowl or zip-lock bag. I like to use my hands to make sure every piece gets coated. There’s something therapeutic about it.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. But overnight? Into the fridge it goes for at least 4 hours — but overnight? Chef’s kiss.
Nando's Chicken Marinade

Tip: “Marinating overnight is my love language.”

Oven Time: Let’s Turn Up the Heat

After hours of anticipation (and hunger), it’s time to cook.

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
  • Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper; trust me, it makes cleanup a breeze.
  • Lay the chicken out evenly and bake for 25-30 minutes. Flip it halfway through — that’s how you get the even browning.
  • For the last 3-5 minutes, switch on the grill (broiler) for those beautiful charred edges. The smell? Unbelievable.

Pro Move: “Brush a little extra marinade on before grilling. It caramelizes and creates magic.”

Can You Use an Air Fryer for Nando’s Chicken?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Place marinated chicken in the basket and cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get crispy edges and juicy centers — perfect for a quicker, cleaner cook.

My Chicken Breast Tips (Tried, Tested, and True)

  • Pound the chicken: It cooks more evenly and stays juicy.
  • Sear first (optional): I sometimes sear the chicken in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes per side before baking. It locks in the juices and gives it that restaurant-style look.
  • Use a thermometer: 75°C (165°F) is the golden number for doneness.
  • Rest before serving: Give it 5 minutes. It’s worth it.

Sidekick Ideas

Let’s be honest. The chicken is the star, but the sides? They’re the supporting cast that turn this into a showstopper.

  • Spicy rice (I make mine with a bit of turmeric, paprika, and veggies)
  • Peri-peri fries (tossed in paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne)
  • Garlic bread (yes, you deserve it)
  • Fresh salad with feta, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette

Bonus: “Wrap the chicken in a warm pita with lettuce and mayo — Nando’s wrap style at home!”

Pro Tips for Nando’s-Style Chicken

  • Brine it first: 30 minutes in salted water = ultra-juicy chicken.
  • Freeze leftover marinade (not used on raw meat): Perfect for quick weekday meals.
  • Use skin-on thighs for extra flavor: Crispy skin + peri-peri = heaven.
  • Batch cook and meal prep: Trust me, future you will thank present you.

“The smell alone while it’s cooking will have your neighbors knocking.”

Nutrition Info (Per Serving Approx.)

Calories

300-350 kcal

Protein

30g

Fibre

1g

Caarbs

2g

fat

18g

Gluten-Free

Yes

Dairy-Free

Yes

Nut-Free

Yes

Closure 

This isn’t just a Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken recipe — it’s a love letter to spice lovers, a cozy night-in alternative to eating out, and a way to bring people together around the table.

I’ve made this for family dinners, lazy Sundays, and even meal preps for the week. Every time I make it, someone asks for the recipe.

So here it is — from my kitchen to yours. Whether you’re into fiery heat or gentle herbs, this chicken brings the bold, saucy joy Nando’s is famous for… right into your home.

So go on, spice things up—dance in the kitchen. Take a bite and smile. Because you just made something amazing. ❤️

Got your twist on this recipe? Share it below or tag your dish with #CheekyHomemadeNandos — let’s build a flavor-loving community, one chicken at a time.

Like this recipe? Bookmark it, share it with your food crew.

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