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Peri Peri Chicken Burger: How to Make the Perfect Chicken Burger

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Peri Peri Chicken Burger Recipe! Enjoy a spicy, flavorful twist on the classic burger with tender chicken patties and a bold kick of heat in every bite."
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Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Frying pan or grill
  • Tongs
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs recommended for juicier burgers)
  • Olive oil for cooking

For Peri Peri Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup red chili peppers fresh or dried, depending on spice preference
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

For Perinaise (Peri Peri Mayonnaise):

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Peri Peri sauce from the above recipe

For Assembling:

  • 4 burger rolls toasted
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Extra Peri Peri sauce optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness of 1 cm (about 0.4 inches) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. If using thighs, trim them to a size slightly larger than your buns (factor in about 20% shrinkage as they cook).
  • Make the Peri Peri Sauce: Combine all the Peri Peri sauce ingredients (chili, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, paprika, cumin, salt, and sugar) in a jug or blender. Use a stick blender or regular blender to blitz the mixture until smooth.
  • Marinate the Chicken: Pour 1/2 cup of the Peri Peri sauce into a bowl or ziplock bag. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 3 hours, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
  • Prepare the Perinaise: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of the prepared Peri Peri sauce. Set aside.
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium to medium-high heat. Alternatively, preheat a BBQ grill and lightly oil the grates. 6. Cook the chicken breasts for about 3 minutes per side or chicken thighs for 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Lower the heat if the chicken starts to char too much. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the heat and place it on a plate. Loosely cover it with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. During this time, toast your burger rolls.
  • Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of Perinaise on the bottom of each toasted roll. Top with lettuce and tomato slices. 9. Add the cooked chicken and drizzle with more Peri Peri sauce and Perinaise if desired. Place the other half of the toasted roll on top to complete the burger.
  • Serve and enjoy your spicy, juicy Peri Peri Chicken Burgers! 🍔🔥

Notes

  • Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent drying out.
  • Spice Variations: Add cayenne pepper for extra heat, or use smoked chili for a deeper flavor.
  • Serving Ideas: Pair with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea to balance the heat.
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