Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces

Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces boast a rich blend of spices with juicy chicken, roasted alongside potatoes and onions. This dish, marinated with chili, garlic, and herbs, is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

20 Nov 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
2 red hot chili peppers
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp paprika
2 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp fresh thyme
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp brown sugar
2 red onions
3 potatoes
Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces

Discover the bold and flavorful taste of Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces, a dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant mix of spices and herbs. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the sunny coasts of Portugal with its savory and spicy profile.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse and pat dry the whole chicken. Cut it into pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breast).
2. Marinade:
- In a blender or food processor, blend together the red hot chili peppers, garlic cloves, paprika, dried oregano, fresh thyme, lemon juice, olive oil, and brown sugar until you get a smooth paste.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
4. Prepare Vegetables:
- Peel the red onions and cut them into quarters.
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into thick wedges.
5. Roast the Chicken:
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a large roasting pan.
- Add the quartered onions and potato wedges around the chicken pieces.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with some salt and additional dried herbs if desired.
6. Cooking:
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven.
- Roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Stir the potatoes and onions halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
7. Finish and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, remove the roasting pan from the oven.
- Let the chicken pieces rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serving:
- Serve the Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces hot, accompanied by the roasted potatoes and onions.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor.

Your Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces are now ready to serve. Enjoy the juicy, well-seasoned chicken with the perfectly roasted vegetables. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. Bom apetite!

Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces FAQ:

What is the recommended baking time for Portuguese-style roast chicken pieces?

Roast the chicken pieces for about 45-60 minutes at 375°F (190°C). It's essential to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I use other types of chicken instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken parts like breasts, thighs, or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller pieces may cook faster. Verify doneness with a meat thermometer.

How should I store leftover Portuguese-style roast chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

What can I use as a substitute for red hot chili peppers if I prefer less heat?

You can substitute red hot chili peppers with bell peppers or poblano peppers for a milder flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check each piece, especially near the bone.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Make sure to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting conditions.

- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken on high for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of red hot chili peppers according to your preference.

- Consider adding a splash of white wine to the marinade for an extra depth of flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 1220kcal
Protein 90g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 10g
Sugar 9g
Fat 80g

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