Portuguese Grilled Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish known for its spicy, tangy marinade inspired by traditional piri-piri flavors. Marinated in a mixture of garlic, paprika, lemon, and herbs, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy, tender meat with a smoky char. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts or casual dinners, offering a taste of Portugal’s beloved barbecue tradition.
Ingredients:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or your preferred cuts)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Directions:
In a bowl, combine garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, black pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar to create the marinade.
Place chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Grill chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crisp and charred in spots.
Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx., serves 4):
Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Cholesterol: 130 mg
Sodium: 600 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 2 g
Dietary Fiber: 0 g
Sugars: 0 g
Protein: 30 g