Homemade Portuguese Chicken Recipe: Bold, Flavorful, and Oven-Roasted to Perfection
If you want to impress your palate with a bold and flavorful chicken dish that combines Mediterranean spices with a citrus twist, this Homemade Portuguese Chicken is a must-try. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a spicy and tangy blend of paprika, oregano, and lemon, then roasted until perfectly golden brown. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and restaurant flavor, all made in your kitchen.
Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this Portuguese-inspired chicken recipe is always a great option.
Necessary ingredients
This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh chicken. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:
- ¼ cup lemon juice – freshly squeezed for a sharp citrus flavor
- ¼ cup olive oil – adds richness and depth
- 4 cloves of garlic – peeled or substitute with 1 ½ tablespoons of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika – for that characteristic reddish hue
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – earthy and herbaceous
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – adds a mild spicy touch
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – optional, but recommended for a special touch
- 1 bay leaf – classic flavor enhancer
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – to balance the flavors
- 4 chicken legs – with bone and skin for a juicy result
The Marinade: A Flavor Bomb
The heart of this recipe is the marinade. It gives the chicken an irresistible flavor that:
- Sour from lemon juice
- Spicy with chili powder and chili flakes
- Oregano and bay leaf herbs
- Smoky and hot thanks to paprika and garlic
Pro tip:
If you’re short on time or prefer a smoother texture, use garlic powder instead of fresh cloves.
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 15 minutes |
| Marinating time | 8 hours (or overnight) |
| Cooking time | 55 minutes |
| Total time | Approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes |
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Blend the marinade
In a blender, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic (or garlic powder), paprika, oregano, sea salt, chili powder, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
Cut slits in the chicken thighs (light slits in the skin help the marinade penetrate). Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or bowl.
Step 3: Marinate
Pour about ⅓ cup of the marinade over the chicken. Massage to coat evenly. Sprinkle with a little more salt, seal the container, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (preferably overnight). Reserve the rest of the marinade for later.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish. Discard the used marinade.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Turn the chicken over, drizzle with the reserved marinade, cover again, and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes.
- Finally, uncover and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature: 74°C) and golden brown.
Consumption Suggestions
- This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed rice or couscous
- Roasted vegetables
- Warm, crispy bread
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Optional: Serve with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Portuguese Chicken
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Strong flavor | A spicy, citrusy marinade that will awaken your taste buds. |
| Juicy texture | Slow-roasted to lock in moisture and ensure tender, fall-apart chicken |
| Simple ingredients | Uses pantry staples and fresh chicken |
| Practical to prepare in advance | Marinate the night before and bake the next day |
| Versatility | Great for lunch, dinner, lunchboxes or even as a main course at parties. |
Storage Tips
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Heat in oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 to 15 minutes.
Freezing: You can freeze marinated (raw) or cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Is it really Portuguese?
This recipe reflects flavors commonly found in Portuguese cuisine, albeit more modern and homey. Traditional Portuguese Galinha can be made with coconut milk or roasted in casseroles. However, this version uses authentic ingredients like garlic, paprika, lemon, and oregano—true to the spirit of Portuguese home cooking.
Final Considerations
This Homemade Portuguese Chicken is simple, substantial, and full of flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or quiet weekends when you want something comforting and exciting at the same time. Best of all, it’s easy enough for beginners, yet satisfying enough for experienced home cooks.
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