Name: Mild Peri-Peri Spatchcock Chicken Tray Bake
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 pcs Red bell peppers (quartered); 1 pcs Onion (medium, thickly sliced); 3 pcs Green onions (roughly chopped); 3 pcs Garlic cloves (unpeeled); 22.5 ml Olive oil; 1.5 tsp Smoked paprika; 1 tsp Sweet paprika; 1 tsp Dried oregano; 0.5 tsp Ground cumin; 0.5 tsp Ground coriander; 0.5 tsp Black pepper; 1.25 tsp Salt; 15 ml Lemon juice; 15 ml White vinegar; 30 ml Olive oil; 1700 g Whole chicken (spatchcocked); 1 pcs Onion (large, cut into wedges); 1 pcs Leek (thick rounds); 1 pcs Lemon (sliced); 22.5 ml Olive oil; Salt (pinch); 15 ml Olive oil (for brushing); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Mild Peri-Peri Spatchcock Chicken Tray Bake

This mild peri-peri spatchcock chicken tray bake uses a roasted pepper marinade for smoky, gently tangy flavor without high heat. Spatchcocking helps the chicken cook evenly while onions, leeks, and lemon roast underneath to protect the meat and add moisture.

Why This Recipe Works

Roasting the pepper base removes harsh raw onion notes and concentrates sweetness. Flattening the chicken lets the legs and breast finish at the same time for juicy meat and crisp skin.

Ingredients Overview

The marinade combines roasted peppers, aromatics, paprika, and a splash of lemon and vinegar for balanced flavor. A simple vegetable layer keeps the tray moist and adds a built-in side.

How to Make It

Roast the pepper base, blend it into a smooth marinade, and coat the spatchcocked chicken well. Roast over the vegetables until the breast hits 75C and the thighs reach 82C, then rest before carving.

Tips, Variations, and Serving

If you prefer extra heat, add chili flakes at the table rather than to the tray. Serve with buttered rice or flatbreads and a simple cucumber or tomato salad. A spoonful of yogurt sauce is a good cooling contrast.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 180C oven until warmed through, adding a splash of pan juices to keep the chicken moist.

Carving and Serving Tips

Rest the chicken before carving so the juices stay in the meat instead of running onto the tray. Spoon some of the roasted peppery pan juices over the sliced chicken and vegetables right before serving for the best flavor.