Peri Peri Chicken and Chips with Lemon Dressed Salad Recipe

There is something incredibly satisfying about a meal that perfectly balances bold spices, crispy textures, and fresh flavors all on one plate. The Peri Peri Chicken and Chips with Lemon Dressed Salad Recipe is just that kind of dish, pairing spicy, juicy chicken with golden chips and a bright, zesty salad that keeps every bite exciting. Whether you’re craving comfort food with a twist or looking to impress without fuss, this recipe brings warmth, vibrancy, and a little fiery kick to your table in under an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep your ingredients straightforward and essential for this dish—the magic comes from how they all come together to create a harmonious combination of flavors and textures. Each item plays a vital role, whether adding seasoning, freshness, or a satisfying crunch.

• 450g Potatoes: Perfect for making crispy chips without peeling, keeping a rustic texture.
• 1 Garlic Clove: Adds depth and mellow sweetness when roasted alongside the potatoes.
• ½ Lemon: Both zest and juice provide a zesty brightness that lifts the entire salad and chicken.
• 190g Baby Plum Tomatoes: Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy chicken and tangy dressing.
• 1 Baby Gem Lettuce: Adds a crisp, fresh bite to the salad, balancing the heartiness of the meat and chips.
• Peri Peri Seasoning: The star spice blend giving the chicken a fiery, aromatic flavor.
• 2 British Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, perfect for quick cooking and absorption of the seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise: Combined with roasted garlic, it creates a creamy dip that complements the spicy chicken and crispy chips.

How to Make Peri Peri Chicken and Chips with Lemon Dressed Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Chips

Start by preheating your oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas mark 7 for the perfect roasting temperature. Chop your potatoes lengthways into 1cm slices and then cut them into 1cm wide chips—no peeling is necessary, which saves time and keeps the skins for added texture. Toss the chips with a drizzle of oil, salt, and pepper directly on a large baking tray. Don’t forget the garlic clove; peel and wrap it in foil with oil and add it to the tray. Spread everything out in a single layer for even roasting. Pro tip: If your tray feels crowded, use two trays to avoid soggy chips.

Step 2: Roast Until Golden and Perfectly Crispy

Place the tray on the top shelf of your hot oven and roast for 25-30 minutes until the chips are beautifully golden. Halfway through, remove the garlic foil packet—roasted garlic will take on a sweet creaminess—and flip the chips so they crisp evenly. This slow roast not only crisps the chips but also caramelizes the garlic, making it perfect for the sauce later on.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Dressed Salad

While the potatoes roast, zest and halve your lemon. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to a medium bowl along with a gentle drizzle of oil, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Halve the baby plum tomatoes and toss them in the dressing. Taste and tweak with more lemon juice if needed, ensuring the salad is vibrant and refreshing. Slice the trimmed baby gem lettuce thinly and set aside, ready to combine shortly.

Step 4: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Sprinkle peri peri seasoning and lemon zest generously on a plate, then add salt and pepper. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of baking paper or cling film and bash gently with the bottom of a saucepan until about 1-2cm thick—this helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender. Coat each breast fully in the seasoning mix, making sure every nook and cranny is covered. Remember to wash your hands and any surfaces thoroughly afterward for safety!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Once the chips are halfway roasted and you have removed the garlic, heat a drizzle of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them until golden brown and cooked through—approximately 5-6 minutes per side. The chicken should not be pink in the center. After cooking, transfer the breasts to a board and loosely cover with foil to rest; this keeps the meat juicy and tender.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Mayo and Assemble

Mash the soft roasted garlic with a fork and combine it with the mayonnaise in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, creating a luscious dip that pairs perfectly with both chicken and chips. Toss the sliced baby gem into the tomato bowl for a quick fresh salad. Finally, slice each chicken breast widthways into five pieces and plate alongside the golden chips and salad. Add a dollop of the garlic mayo for dipping and serve lemon wedges for an extra zing. Now you’re ready to enjoy a fantastic homemade feast!

How to Serve Peri Peri Chicken and Chips with Lemon Dressed Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Serving this dish with fresh lemon wedges is a must. A quick squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken and salad amplifies the freshness and cuts through the heat of the peri peri seasoning beautifully. Chop a few sprigs of fresh parsley or coriander if you want a subtle herbal lift and extra color on your plate. These little touches turn an already vibrant dish into a true feast for the eyes and palate.

Side Dishes

If you want to extend your meal, consider pairing it with a light side like grilled corn on the cob or a simple cucumber raita to cool things down. A crusty artisan bread also works well to scoop up any leftover garlic mayo or dressings, making sure no flavor goes to waste. These sides complement the boldness of the peri peri chicken without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, arrange everything family-style on a big platter, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, serve the sliced chicken breast neatly fanned out on individual plates beside a pile of chips and a heap of salad. Dollop the garlic mayo artfully in small ramekins or zigzag across the chicken for a restaurant-style touch. Presentation is a fun way to make this home-cooked favorite feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover peri peri chicken and chips can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salad and garlic mayo separate to prevent sogginess, and add them fresh when ready to serve again. This way, you maintain the best textures and flavors for your next meal.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, separate the chicken and chips, placing them in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 1 month. The salad and dressing, however, do not freeze well, so prepare those fresh when you plan to eat. Defrost the chicken and chips overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, use an oven or air fryer for the chips to bring back their crispiness, heating at 180°C for 10-15 minutes. Warm the chicken gently in the oven or on a skillet to keep it juicy—avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat. Add the fresh salad and garlic mayo at serving time to enjoy the full, delicious experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While waxy potatoes hold their shape best for chips, floury or roasting potatoes can also work. Just adjust cooking times slightly and keep an eye on the crispiness.

Is peri peri seasoning very spicy?

Peri peri seasoning has a lively heat, but it’s generally mild to medium spice levels and very flavorful. You can adjust the amount used depending on your heat tolerance, or even add a bit more if you love a fiery kick.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! You can substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or halloumi slices and follow the same cooking method. The peri peri seasoning works wonderfully with plant-based proteins too.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise for the garlic dip?

If you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version, try using Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative. Both blend beautifully with roasted garlic and keep the dip creamy and delicious.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check that the chicken is no longer pink inside by slicing into the thickest part. The juices should run clear, and the texture will be firm but tender. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

Final Thoughts

This Peri Peri Chicken and Chips with Lemon Dressed Salad Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dinners whenever I want something comforting, flavorful, and fresh all at once. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, crispy, and creamy that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s just as satisfying for a cozy weeknight as it is for entertaining friends. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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