Food is an integral part of Zimbabwean culture, drawing from a rich tapestry of influences and local ingredients. The spicy grilled chicken recipe is a wonderful homage to this heritage—it’s simple, yet bursting with flavor. This dish works equally well for a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, making it an ideal candidate for sharing on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace. In this recipe, we’ll focus on combining spices that dance on your palate, creating an unforgettable meal that not only delights your guests but also has the potential to inspire small businesses!
Ingredients
- 1 kg boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. This aromatic mixture is the secret to your spiced grilled chicken that will tantalize taste buds.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and ensure every piece is well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This step is crucial for allowing the chicken to absorb all those rich spices.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, allow the coals to burn down until they are covered with ash. A well-heated grill will help achieve perfect grill marks and lock in flavors.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the grates. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 75°C (165°F). If you want those gorgeous grill marks, resist the urge to move the chicken around too much!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken succulent. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added zest. Your spiced grilled chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!
Cooking Tips
- For a smoky flavor: Add a few wood chips to your charcoal or a smoker box for gas grills.
- Side suggestions: Serve with pap, salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.
- Perfect for sharing: Consider packing leftovers to share with friends or as part of a community meal program, linking perfectly with opportunities available on Zimbo Menu’s sellers page.
As you experiment with this spiced grilled chicken recipe, remember that it’s just the beginning. Use it as an inspiration for either personal enjoyment or creating a small culinary business. Download the Zimbo Menu apps to explore how you might fit into this vibrant food marketplace, bringing your unique flavors to others!
For more inspiration and to explore what delicious dishes you can offer, be sure to check out Zimbo Menu’s support page.
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