Butterfly Chicken Breast from Nando's features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a spicy peri-peri sauce, grilled to perfection with charred grill marks, and served with a smoky, flavorful crust that balances heat and zest.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Basting brush
- Instant-read thermometer
- Plate or serving dish
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons peri-peri sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Ensure your chicken breasts are evenly flattened using a meat mallet for consistent cooking and better absorption of the peri-peri marinade. Using fresh minced garlic and smoked paprika enhances the smoky and zesty flavor profile characteristic of Nando's Butterfly Chicken Breast. Olive oil helps in tenderizing the chicken while allowing the spices to adhere well during grilling. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165degF to guarantee juicy, fully cooked chicken. Your grilled Butterfly Chicken Breast from Nando's copycat menu will capture the bold, spicy essence of the original dish with a perfect balance of heat and smokiness.
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts on a cutting board and hold flat with your palm.
- Using a chef’s knife, slice each breast horizontally almost all the way through, then open like a book (butterfly).
- Gently pound the butterflied breasts with a meat mallet to an even thickness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, peri-peri sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring even coating.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
- Grill chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, basting occasionally with leftover marinade using a basting brush.
- Grill until an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- Transfer to a plate or serving dish and serve.
Substitution
The Butterfly Chicken Breast from Nando's copycat menu offers a spicy peri-peri flavor with a smoky grilled finish. If peri-peri sauce is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of hot sauce, smoked paprika, and lemon juice to mimic the unique taste. Use a meat mallet to evenly flatten the chicken breasts for faster, more uniform grilling. An instant-read thermometer helps ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165degF without overcooking. You can serve your grilled chicken with a fresh side salad or spicy rice to complement the bold flavors.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breasts are evenly pounded to guarantee consistent cooking and prevent overcooking thinner areas. Marinating for at least one hour allows the peri-peri flavors to deeply penetrate, enhancing juiciness and spice balance. Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature hits 165degF (75degC) for safe consumption without drying out the chicken. Avoid discarding extra marinade before basting, as it intensifies the smoky, zesty crust characteristic of Nando's style peri-peri chicken.
Nutritions
Butterfly Chicken Breast from Nando's provides a rich source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The use of olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the peri-peri marinade adds antioxidants from ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Each serving is low in carbohydrates and contains moderate sodium levels from seasoning, supporting a balanced diet when portioned appropriately. Your meal combines bold flavors with nutrition that supports energy and overall health.
Storage
Store leftover Butterfly Chicken Breast in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain its tender, juicy texture and spicy peri-peri flavor. Consume refrigerated chicken within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags if you plan to keep your meal longer, ensuring you thaw it fully before reheating to an internal temperature of 165degF (75degC).
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute peri-peri sauce with a mix of hot sauce and smoked chili powder to achieve a similar spicy and smoky flavor if peri-peri is unavailable. Instead of grilling, sear the chicken breasts in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 4 minutes per side, then finish in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 8-10 minutes to maintain juiciness. Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours intensifies the flavor, while adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade brings an aromatic twist to the dish. For a healthier option, brush the chicken with a small amount of olive oil before grilling to reduce flare-ups and achieve a crisp, flavorful crust without excess fat.
Allergies
Butterfly Chicken Breast from Nando's contains ingredients such as peri-peri sauce and garlic that may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Olive oil and spices like smoked paprika and oregano can also cause allergies or intolerances in some people. It is important to check your specific allergies before consuming this dish to avoid any adverse symptoms.
Why this recipe?
The Butterfly Chicken Breast from Nando's is celebrated for its juicy texture and bold peri-peri flavor that perfectly balances spice and zest. People enjoy the tender, flame-grilled chicken marinated with signature African Bird's Eye chili, delivering a mouthwatering taste experience. Trying to make a copycat version at home allows you to recreate the irresistible smoky heat and succulent bite tailored to your preferred spice level. This dish offers a delicious, healthier alternative to fried chicken, making it worthwhile to master in your kitchen.