Name: Savor the Flavors of Portuguese Grilled Chicken at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cloves Garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best for optimal aroma); 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (lime is a great substitute); 2 tablespoons Paprika (use a mix of regular and smoked for extra flavor); 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (Oregano, Parsley), chopped (dried herbs can be used if fresh isn’t available); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (feel free to substitute with another oil); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional for heat; omit if preferred milder); 1 whole Butterflied Chicken (ensures quick and even cooking)

There’s nothing quite like the hypnotic aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air on a warm evening. When I first discovered Portuguese Grilled Chicken, I was captivated by its vibrant flavors and the charm of its simplicity. This gluten-free delight features a zesty herb marinade that harmonizes the sharpness of lemon with the earthiness of garlic and paprika, resulting in tender, juicy chicken with crisp, golden skin. It’s not only a feast for the senses but also a low-carb treat, making it a versatile option for health-conscious friends and family gatherings alike. Plus, with easy prep and the potential for endless adaptation, you won’t be stuck in a culinary rut. Ready to transform your weeknight dinners or summer BBQs with this irresistible dish? Let’s dive into the flavors of Portugal!

Why is Portuguese Grilled Chicken a must-try?

Deliciously Versatile: This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to switch up the marinade to suit your tastes. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip it up for a weeknight dinner or impress guests at summer barbecues. Gluten-Free Goodness: Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Bold Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and earthy spices offers a delightful punch in every bite, much like the delicious Grilled Salsa Chicken. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it alongside a fresh salad or even with crusty bread and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate ahead for an effortless dinner solution—perfect for busy weeknights or food prep enthusiasts.

Portuguese Grilled Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Garlic – adds depth; fresh garlic is best for optimal aroma.
• Lemon Juice – provides bright acidity; lime is a great substitute for a different tang.
• Paprika – offers smokiness and beautiful color; use a mix of regular and smoked for extra flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (Oregano, Parsley) – enhances freshness; dried herbs can be used if fresh isn’t available.
• Olive Oil – a base for the marinade; feel free to substitute with another oil if desired.
• Cayenne Pepper – optional for heat; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.

For the Chicken
• Butterflied Chicken – the star of the dish; ensures quick and even cooking.

This Portuguese Grilled Chicken recipe is not only gluten-free but also perfect for a low-carb lifestyle, making it a delicious option for any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Portuguese Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, and chopped herbs to create a zesty marinade. Coat the whole butterflied chicken thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring it gets into all the crevices. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill/Oven
About 30 minutes before cooking, take the marinated Portuguese Grilled Chicken out of the fridge to bring it to room temperature. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures even cooking and helps achieve crispy skin, a key feature of this flavorful dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill, skin side down, and grill for about 35 minutes total. During cooking, apply any leftover marinade to keep the chicken moist. The skin should become crispy and golden brown, and use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for optimal doneness.

Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, remove the Portuguese Grilled Chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness. After resting, carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, for a delicious meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Portuguese Grilled Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine the garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and herbs, then coat the butterflied chicken thoroughly, cover it, and refrigerate. If you’re planning ahead for a gathering, you can also chop the herbs and prepare the marinade 3 days prior, storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When it’s time to cook, just bring the marinated chicken to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling, and you’ll achieve delicious results with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience of this meal prep method while still savoring the vibrant flavors of Portuguese Grilled Chicken!

Portuguese Grilled Chicken Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while customizing this delightful dish in ways that excite your taste buds!

Herb Swap: Use rosemary or thyme instead of oregano for a flavor twist that complements the chicken beautifully. Those aromatic herbs add a lovely fragrance, perfect for outdoor grilling.
Citrus Burst: Try lime juice instead of lemon to give the marinade a refreshing zing. The citrusy notes of lime will brighten your chicken, making it even more appetizing.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika exclusively for an intense smoky taste that will remind you of a classic barbecue. This variation will add depth to your grilled chicken experience.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace olive oil with avocado oil for a cleaner taste. This healthy fat will keep the marinade lovely and light, without compromising flavor.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add chili powder or increase the cayenne pepper. This fiery addition will give your dish a vibrant twist, sure to satisfy spice lovers.
Cuban-Inspired: Elevate the flavor profile by adding a touch of cumin and coriander to the marinade. This alternative can transport your taste buds to a tropical escape reminiscent of Cuban Chicken Black dishes.
Crunchy Finish: Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch. This variation adds a delightful texture contrast that enhances each bite.
Vegetable Pairing: Serve alongside a grilled vegetable medley such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Roasting these veggies will elevate your BBQ spread, making it colorful and nutritious.

Expert Tips for Portuguese Grilled Chicken

Marinate Longer: Aim to marinate overnight for the chicken to soak up all the bold flavors, ensuring every bite is deliciously flavorful.
Check Skin Dryness: Pat the chicken skin dry before grilling. This simple step promotes a beautifully crispy texture that elevates your dish.
Use a Thermometer: To avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to guarantee perfectly juicy meat.
Customize Spice Levels: Tailor the marinade to your heat preference. More cayenne adds kick while omitting it provides a gentler flavor profile.
Resting Period Matters: Always let the chicken rest post-grilling. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent final dish.
Explore Side Pairings: Portuguese Grilled Chicken pairs well with fresh salads, roasted veggies, or traditional rice for a well-rounded meal experience.

How to Store and Freeze Portuguese Grilled Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Portuguese Grilled Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the skin on for moisture retention and maximum flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken a day in advance, keeping it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook for maximum flavor!

What to Serve with Portuguese Grilled Chicken

When crafting a meal around this zesty and succulent chicken dish, imagine a table full of vibrant flavors and comforting textures that delight every palate.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture complements the crispy chicken beautifully, soaking up any leftover marinade for added flavor.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and balance, enhancing the richness of the grilled chicken.
Garlic Bread: The warm, crunchy goodness of garlic bread provides a satisfying contrast, perfect for mopping up those delicious juices from the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and caramelized, roasted veggies offer a delightful crunch and earthy sweetness, pairing perfectly with the robustness of the chicken.
Spanish Rice: Fluffy and seasoned rice adds a hearty base to soak up flavors, providing a fulfilling addition to your culinary ensemble.
Chilled White Wine: A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the citrus notes of the marinade and elevates the entire dining experience.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy, charred corn with a touch of lime echoes the flavors of the marinade while enhancing that BBQ feel on a warm evening.
Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits create a sweet contrast and cleanse the palate, refreshing your taste buds after the savory chicken.

Serving these delightful sides with your Portuguese Grilled Chicken will create an unforgettable dining experience for family and friends!

Portuguese Grilled Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results with your Portuguese Grilled Chicken, opt for a whole butterflied chicken. This allows for quicker and more even cooking while enhancing the flavor. Make sure the chicken is fresh and has no dark spots or any foul odor. Organic or free-range options are excellent as they usually provide superior taste and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Leftover Portuguese Grilled Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken moist and flavorful, it’s best to leave the skin on. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure it’s cooled down completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze the Portuguese Grilled Chicken, first marinate it as instructed, then place it in a resealable plastic bag or a container ensuring as much air as possible is removed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and proceed with grilling as usual!

What if my chicken is not cooking evenly?
No worries! If you notice that your Portuguese Grilled Chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it may be due to the grill’s hot spots or uneven thickness. I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—aim for 165°F (74°C). If the skin is browning too quickly while the meat remains undercooked, try moving the chicken to a cooler spot on the grill or reduce the heat slightly.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed! This Portuguese Grilled Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free and suitable for a low-carb or Keto-friendly diet, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. However, if you or any guests have specific allergies, always double-check the ingredients used in your marinade and avoid adding cayenne if anyone has spice sensitivities.

Can I adapt the marinade for different flavors?
Very much so! The beauty of this Portuguese Grilled Chicken lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the marinade to suit your preferences. For a herby twist, consider adding fresh rosemary or thyme. If you’re looking for a sweeter touch, a bit of honey or brown sugar can balance out the acidity of the lemon. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor experiments!