Portuguese-style barbecued chicken

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Portuguese-style barbecued chicken with this easy-to-follow recipe. Featuring a whole chicken marinated in a zesty blend of red hot chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt, this dish promises a deliciously smoky and spicy experience. Perfect for grilling enthusiasts and family dinners alike!

  • 04 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 20 min
  • Prep time 20 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 6 Ingredients

Portuguese-style barbecued chicken

Portuguese-style barbecued chicken, also known as 'Frango no Churrasco,' is a flavorful and spicy dish that's perfect for summer grilling. The combination of red hot chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice creates a delicious marinade that makes this chicken explode with flavor. Follow this simple recipe to bring a taste of Portugal to your own backyard.

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
1360g
2 red hot chili peppers
80g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1/4 cup olive oil
60g
2 tbsp lemon juice
10g
1 tsp salt
5g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Optional: To ensure even cooking, you may spatchcock the chicken by removing the backbone with kitchen shears and pressing down to flatten it.
2. Make the Marinade:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the red hot chili peppers, garlic cloves, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Blend until you achieve a smooth mixture.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
- Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow cuts into the chicken flesh to help the marinade penetrate.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get into the cuts and all crevices.
- Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or in a dish covered with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight.
4. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C).
5. Grill the Chicken:
- Once the grill is hot, oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down first.
- Grill the chicken for about 15-20 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (but not touching the bone). Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning.
6. Rest the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board, tented with aluminum foil, for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
7. Serve:
- Carve the chicken into serving pieces and arrange on a platter.
- Optionally garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve your Portuguese-style barbecued chicken with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips:

- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

- If you don't have a barbecue, you can also cook the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until done.

- Baste the chicken occasionally with the remaining marinade to keep it moist and flavorful.

- For extra char and flavor, grill the chicken over high heat for the last few minutes of cooking.

Portuguese-style barbecued chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a mouth-watering, spicy chicken that is perfect for any outdoor gathering. Don't forget to serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the rich, zesty flavors of Portuguese cuisine!

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size380 grams
Energy
Calories 1030kcal51%
Protein
Protein 90g59%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 2.36g1%
Fiber 0.35g1%
Sugar 1.14g1%
Fat
Fat 90g102%
Saturated 22g73%
Cholesterol 300mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 370ug41%
Choline 210mg39%
Vitamin B1 0.23mg19%
Vitamin B2 0.68mg52%
Vitamin B3 24mg144%
Vitamin B6 1.04mg61%
Vitamin B9 27ug6%
Vitamin B12 0.92ug38%
Vitamin C 30mg33%
Vitamin E 1.06mg7%
Vitamin K 20ug16%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 80mg6%
Copper, Cu 0.29mg32%
Iron, Fe 5mg46%
Magnesium, Mg 70mg17%
Phosphorus, P 530mg43%
Potassium, K 790mg23%
Selenium, Se 80ug139%
Sodium, Na 780mg52%
Zinc, Zn 8mg70%
Water
Water 200g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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