Description
This bold and juicy Portuguese Grilled Chicken is marinated in olive oil, garlic, herbs, lemon, and paprika for a zesty, smoky flavor you’ll crave again and again. It’s the perfect recipe for family dinners, summer cookouts, or anytime you want a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken (about 3 to 4 pounds)
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions
Butterfly the chicken by cutting out the backbone and flattening the bird. Pat it dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), oregano, parsley, and white wine vinegar.
Rub the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. (If using an oven, preheat to 425°F.)
Grill the chicken skin-side down for 10–12 minutes. Flip and continue grilling for 15–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If roasting, place chicken in a pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway.
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
For crispy skin, pat the chicken dry before marinating.
No grill? No worries! Oven roasting works beautifully.
Adjust cayenne to your preferred heat level.
This recipe is fantastic with roasted veggies, salad, or warm bread on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled or Roasted
- Cuisine: Portuguese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 whole chicken
- Calories: 410 Kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg