Peri-Peri Chicken Drumsticks – Fiery African Heat

Peri-Peri Chicken Drumsticks are spicy, tangy drumsticks perfect for bold flavor lovers. With a fiery peri-peri marinade, they’re a South African-inspired poultry hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍗 Juicy Drumsticks – Tender and succulent.
🌶️ Peri-Peri Spice – Hot and zesty.
⏳ Easy Grill – Ready in 40 minutes.
🔥 Bold Flavor – African-inspired kick.

What Are Peri-Peri Chicken Drumsticks?

Peri-Peri Chicken Drumsticks are a South African dish featuring chicken drumsticks marinated in a peri-peri sauce made with African bird’s eye chilies, then grilled or baked. A vibrant, spicy classic.

Ingredients

For 4 Servings:
✅ 8 chicken drumsticks
✅ 3 tbsp olive oil
✅ 2 tbsp lemon juice
✅ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✅ 1 tbsp peri-peri sauce (or 1 tsp chili powder + 1 tsp paprika)
✅ 1 tsp smoked paprika
✅ 1 tsp oregano, dried
✅ Salt and black pepper to taste
✅ Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Make Peri-Peri Chicken Drumsticks (Step-by-Step Guide)

🔸 Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, peri-peri sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat drumsticks, marinate for 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in fridge).

🔸 Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat grill to medium-high.

🔸 Cook the Drumsticks
Bake on a lined baking sheet for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway, or grill for 15-20 minutes, until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).

🔸 Serve
Garnish with cilantro, serve hot with lemon wedges!

Serving Suggestions

🍟 With Fries – Crispy sidekick.
🥗 With Salad – Cooling cucumber or coleslaw.
🌽 With Corn – Grilled for extra flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Peri-Peri Chicken

✔️ Marinate Longer – Deepens flavor.
✔️ Grill Option – Adds smoky char.
✔️ Adjust Heat – More or less peri-peri to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

🔹 Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, adjust cooking time to 40-45 minutes.

🔹 Can I make it less spicy?
Reduce peri-peri or use mild paprika.

🔹 How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for 3 days.

Final Thoughts 🍗

Peri-Peri Chicken Drumsticks are a spicy, juicy poultry delight. Fiery, tangy, and African—pure heat! Enjoy!