Portuguese Grilled Chicken
A vibrant summer dish, this Portuguese Grilled Chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and spices, delivering juicy, flavorful results perfect for grilling.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil Extra virgin for best flavor
- 1/4 cup lemon juice Freshly squeezed for optimal taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika Regular paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
- Add minced garlic, paprika, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Place chicken pieces in the bowl and coat evenly with the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight for best results.
Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat about 20 minutes before grilling.
- Remove chicken from the refrigerator, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Discard leftover marinade.
- Grill chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes per side until they develop a char and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the grilled chicken topped with chopped parsley.
Notes
Serve with lemon wedges and sides like garden salad, grilled vegetables, or rice for a complete meal. Don’t rush the marination for better flavor.