African Smoke Chicken
Smoky. Savoury. Unforgettable.
Give your chicken a rich, smoky flavor with this easy recipe. A delicious combination of smoked paprika, garlic, herbs and warming spices creates beautifully seasoned chicken with crisp, golden edges.
Perfect for a weekend braai, a family dinner or a meal worth sharing.
Recipe at a glance
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Marinating: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 35–45 minutes
- Serves: 4 people
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cooking method: Oven or braai
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons African Smoke seasoning, or a smoky spice blend
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional if already included in your blend
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Method
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, African Smoke seasoning, crushed garlic, lemon juice and honey. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Season the chicken
Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavour, leave overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 3: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C. Arrange the chicken pieces in a baking dish or on a lined baking tray, leaving space between them.
Step 4: Roast until golden
Bake for approximately 35–45 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through. Cooking time will depend on the size of the pieces.
For extra colour, finish under the grill for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 5: Check and serve
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C at its thickest part. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
What to serve with it
Pair your African Smoke Chicken with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Pap and chakalaka
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Fresh garden salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
Chef’s tip
For a braai-style finish, cook the chicken over medium heat and turn regularly. Brush with a little extra marinade that has been kept separate from the raw chicken.