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Easy Portuguese Chicken

Savor Easy Portuguese Chicken: Juicy Flavor, Simple Prep

Experience the vibrant, juicy flavors of Easy Portuguese Chicken with simple preparation, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Marinating Time 8 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil Any neutral oil may be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Paprika Adjust with smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Can be fresh or powdered.
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Thyme may be a good substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Salt Kosher or sea salt is preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Can be adjusted based on personal preference.
  • 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes Optional depending on heat tolerance.
  • 1 Bay Leaf Consider omitting if unavailable.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is recommended.
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Quarters Drumsticks or thighs are ideal substitutes.

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil
  • meat thermometer
  • Refrigerator
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a blender, combine 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons paprika, 4 cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon oregano, 1 tablespoon salt, 1 tablespoon chili powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes, 1 bay leaf, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Blend until smooth and well combined.
  2. Score the chicken quarters deeply down to the bone. Place the chicken in a zip-top bag, add 2/3 of the marinade, seal the bag, and massage it into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  3. Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare your baking dish.
  4. Butter a large baking dish, then place the marinated chicken quarters skin-side down in the dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  5. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. Recover the dish with foil and return it to the oven for an additional 20 minutes.
  6. Uncover the chicken for the last round of baking. Baste it again with the marinade and cook for an extra 15-20 minutes or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Serving: 1chicken quarterCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate overnight and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Store leftovers properly in an airtight container.

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