If you’re craving a spicy and delicious chicken dish, look no further than Nando’s butterfly chicken breast. This recipe, inspired by the renowned restaurant, is incredibly easy to recreate in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Nando’s recipes have gained worldwide fame for their simplicity and incredible flavor, making them a popular choice for home cooks. Especially in these uncertain times when dining out is not always possible, it’s great to have the option to enjoy your favorite restaurant-style dishes at home.
Preparing peri-peri butterfly chicken breast is a breeze, and it might just be one of the simplest copycat recipes you’ll ever make. In fact, the only recipe easier than this one might be the McDonald’s sweet and sour sauce for nuggets!
If you’re in the mood for more Nando’s-inspired delights, consider trying their spicy peri-peri chicken thighs or pairing your butterfly chicken with their flavorful spicy rice.
Create Your Own Peri-Peri Marinade
While you could marinate your chicken using store-bought Peri-Peri sauce, it can be challenging to find in certain areas. Instead, why not make your own peri-peri sauce at home? It’s easier than you might think!
To make the marinade, you’ll need a combination of lemon juice, olive oil, sweet and smoked paprika powder, chili flakes, garlic, dried oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simply stir all the ingredients together in a bowl, and you’re ready to go.
Master the Art of Butterflying Chicken Breasts
Butterflying chicken breasts is a simple technique that ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the chicken breast on a cutting board, securing the board with a kitchen towel to prevent any slipping.
- With one hand on top of the breast, use a long knife to slice it in half horizontally. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- For best results, use a long and sharp knife to prevent tearing the meat.
- Once sliced, gently open up the breast and flatten it with a meat tenderizer until it’s evenly thick.
Marinating Tips and Cook Time
Once you’ve successfully butterflied your chicken, place the pieces in a large dish and generously brush them with half of the marinade. Flip the chicken and brush the other side as well. Ideally, marinate for at least 2 hours, but even a quick 15-minute soak will still result in a delicious Nando’s butterfly chicken.
When it’s time to cook, heat a griddle pan, cast-iron skillet, or regular pan on the stove. Brush the pan with a teaspoon of oil and cook the peri-peri chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness. Be sure not to overcook them; these thin pieces only need a few minutes to cook through. If you want to be certain, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Serving Suggestions
Nando’s butterfly chicken pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Try serving it with fries, oven-baked potato wedges, red cabbage slaw, green salad, carrot salad, or Macho peas. For a complete Nando’s experience, consider preparing their spicy rice recipe, which will perfectly complement the chicken.
You can also take your peri-peri chicken to the next level by turning it into a delicious burger. Customize your burger with mayo, ketchup, spicy sauce, salad leaves, onions, and tomato slices for a mouthwatering Nando’s-style treat.
Get Creative with Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, fear not! There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy them. You can eat the chicken cold or reheat it, then serve it in a bun with your favorite sauces, salad leaves, and tomatoes. Another option is to make wraps or stuff pita bread with the chicken. For a lighter option, create a salad using sliced chicken, green salad, grated carrots, onions, and your choice of vinaigrette or yogurt dressing.
More Chicken Breast Recipes
If you’re a fan of chicken breast recipes, there’s a world of possibilities to explore. From classic dishes to innovative culinary creations, chicken breast offers endless opportunities for delighting your taste buds.
So, get ready to enjoy Nando’s butterfly chicken, a dish that will bring the renowned flavors of this beloved restaurant right to your dinner table. Treat yourself and your loved ones to an incredible homemade meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. For more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Ekilove today!