If you’re looking to kick up the flavor in your cooking, look no further than Piri Piri—the fiery little pepper with a big personality. Today, we’re diving into the world of piri piri and sharing a mouthwatering Piri Piri Chicken recipe that brings together spicy, smoky, and tangy notes with a cool, creamy garlic herb yogurt sauce to balance it all out.
What is Piri Piri?
Piri Piri (also spelled peri peri or pilipili) is a variety of chili pepper, originally cultivated in Africa and popularized through Portuguese cuisine. The name means “pepper pepper” in Swahili, a nod to its spicy kick. It’s now famous worldwide thanks to its bold flavor and use in marinades and sauces—particularly on grilled meats.
Piri Piri isn’t just about heat—it’s a unique balance of smoky, citrusy, garlicky, and slightly sweet elements. When turned into a marinade or sauce, it transforms ordinary chicken, shrimp, or even vegetables into something unforgettable.
Piri Piri Chicken with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce
This dish is spicy, tangy, and deeply savory, perfect for a backyard grill or even a weeknight oven bake. The creamy garlic herb yogurt sauce adds a cooling contrast, making each bite balanced and addictive.
Ingredients
For the Piri Piri Marinade:
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 4–6 red chili peppers (like Thai bird’s eye or Fresno), stems removed
- 4 garlic cloves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or rosemary (for garnish)
Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Make the Piri Piri Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine all marinade ingredients until smooth. Adjust chili quantity based on your spice preference.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:

Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly charred.
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake chicken on a foil-lined sheet for 25–30 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes for added char.
4. Prepare Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Let it chill while the chicken cooks—it tastes better after the flavors meld.
5. Plate and Serve:
Serve chicken with a generous dollop of yogurt sauce, fresh parsley, and maybe a side of grilled veggies, couscous, or warm pita.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Bold and Balanced: The heat of piri piri pairs beautifully with the tangy, cool yogurt sauce.
- Versatile Protein: While this recipe uses chicken, the marinade works wonders on shrimp, tofu, or even grilled cauliflower steaks.
- Prep-Friendly: Make the marinade and yogurt sauce ahead of time for easy meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Piri Piri is one of those global flavors that deserves a spot in every kitchen. It’s simple to make, incredibly customizable, and adds serious flair to your favorite proteins. Whether you’re firing up the grill or roasting in your oven, this Piri Piri Chicken with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce is a guaranteed showstopper.
Ready to bring a little spice into your life?