Spicy Peri-Peri Chicken Wings
If you love crispy, juicy, and spicy chicken wings, then you’re in for a treat! Spicy Peri-Peri Chicken Wings offer the perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and tangy goodness. Whether you’re preparing them for a game night, a weekend gathering, or just a personal indulgence, these wings are bound to satisfy your cravings. Plus, with the air fryer, you get all the crunch without the excess oil, making it a healthier yet equally delicious option
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The History of Peri-Peri Sauce
Peri-Peri, also spelled Piri-Piri, originates from Africa, where Portuguese explorers discovered the fiery bird’s eye chili. Over time, this chili was blended with garlic, lemon, vinegar, and various spices to create the now-famous Peri-Peri sauce. The sauce gained massive popularity in Portugal and later spread worldwide, becoming a staple in flame-grilled chicken dishes. Today, Peri-Peri is synonymous with bold flavors and mouthwatering heat, making it a favorite among spice lovers.
What Is This Recipe About?
This Spicy Peri-Peri Chicken Wings recipe combines the rich, tangy flavors of Peri-Peri sauce with the crispiness of air-fried chicken wings. Marinated with a blend of spices and cooked to perfection in an air fryer, these wings boast a crispy texture on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative – Air frying significantly reduces oil usage while keeping the wings crispy.
- Bold and Flavorful – The combination of Peri-Peri sauce, garlic, paprika, and lemon juice creates a tantalizing flavor profile.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a party, family dinner, or quick snack, these wings never disappoint.
- Easy to Prepare – Requires minimal ingredients and effort while delivering maximum taste.
Personal Experience
I first tried Peri-Peri Chicken Wings at a popular Portuguese restaurant, and the flavors instantly captivated me. Determined to recreate the magic at home, I experimented with different spice levels and cooking methods. Using the air fryer was a game-changer—delivering crispy, juicy wings without the greasiness of deep frying. Now, this recipe has become a household favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Equipment You Will Need
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Pastry brush (optional, for extra sauce coating)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Marination time: 30 minutes to overnight (for deeper flavor)
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes (excluding marination)
Taste and Texture
- Spicy & Tangy – The Peri-Peri sauce brings the heat and zest.
- Crispy & Juicy – Air frying ensures the perfect texture.
- Smoky & Garlicky – The paprika and garlic enhance the depth of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2-3 lbs) chicken wings
- 2 tbsp Peri-Peri sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Spicy Peri-Peri Chicken Wings
- Prepare the Marinade – In a large bowl, mix Peri-Peri sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Wings – Add the chicken wings to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for a richer taste.
- Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and preheat for 5 minutes.
- Cook the Wings – Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
- Check for Doneness – Ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle fresh coriander or parsley on top and serve with extra Peri-Peri sauce.
Tips for the Recipe
- For Extra Crispy Wings: Add a teaspoon of baking powder to the marinade.
- Spice Control: Adjust the Peri-Peri sauce and cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
- Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Optional Suggestions
- Add a honey glaze for a sweet-spicy balance.
- Use Greek yogurt in the marinade for a creamy texture.
Serving Ideas – What to Serve with Peri-Peri Wings?
- Garlic bread
- Coleslaw
- Roasted vegetables
- Sweet potato fries
- Ranch or blue cheese dip
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze marinated wings for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Variations
- BBQ Peri-Peri Wings: Add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet kick.
- Mild Version: Reduce the Peri-Peri sauce and skip the cayenne pepper.
- Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts
Spicy Peri-Peri Chicken Wings are a must-try for any spice lover. They’re bold, delicious, and incredibly easy to make with an air fryer. Whether you like them extra hot or with a milder kick, this recipe allows customization to suit your taste. So, give it a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake the wings in an oven at 200°C (400°F) for 40-45 minutes or deep-fry them for extra crunch.
2. How spicy are Peri-Peri wings?
The spice level depends on the amount of Peri-Peri sauce used. Adjust it based on your preference.
3. Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, but thaw them completely before marinating for better flavor absorption.
4. What is the best dipping sauce for Peri-Peri wings?
Ranch, garlic mayo, or extra Peri-Peri sauce pairs perfectly with these wings.
Nutrition Chart (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
Enjoy your homemade Spicy Peri-Peri Chicken Wings and let the fiery flavors delight your taste buds!
