This Homemade Portuguese Chicken recipe features bone-in chicken legs that are marinated in a zesty, seasoned blend of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and a variety of spices, then baked to tender perfection. The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, making it a comforting and easy dinner option.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup lemon juice

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 bay leaf

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 8 bone-in chicken legs

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, sea salt, chili powder, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and black pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until the sauce is smooth.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Use a knife to score the chicken legs a few times. Place them in a resealable plastic bag (or large bowl). Pour about 1/3 cup of the marinade over the chicken, stirring to coat well. Season with additional sea salt. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.

3. Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and discard any excess marinade. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes.

4. Baste and Flip: Turn the chicken over and baste with the reserved sauce. Re-cover with foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes.

5. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, 15-20 minutes more. An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).

Nutrients (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: Approx. 300 kcal

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 5g

• Sodium: 500mg

Enjoy your homemade Portuguese chicken with a side of rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal!

The Importance of Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken legs overnight is key to achieving the best flavor in this dish. By allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade for several hours, the flavors of the lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and spices penetrate deeply into the meat. This step not only infuses the chicken with a savory and tangy profile but also helps to tenderize it, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful.

The lemon juice acts as a natural tenderizer, while the olive oil provides richness and moisture, ensuring that the chicken remains succulent throughout the cooking process. The combination of paprika, oregano, and chili powder adds complexity and depth to the dish, creating a balance between savory, smoky, and mildly spicy flavors.

The Role of Olive Oil and Garlic

Olive oil plays an essential role in this recipe by providing a smooth texture to the marinade and helping to lock in moisture as the chicken bakes. Olive oil is also a signature ingredient in many Mediterranean and Portuguese dishes, known for its health benefits and its ability to enhance the flavors of other ingredients. The garlic, another fundamental element of Portuguese cuisine, provides aromatic warmth and depth, creating a perfect base for the marinade. Together, these ingredients form the backbone of the marinade, ensuring that the chicken will be bursting with flavor.

Garlic, in particular, has a unique ability to infuse both flavor and aroma into the chicken, especially when minced finely. As the chicken bakes, the garlic becomes soft and mellow, balancing the acidity of the lemon and the smokiness of the paprika.

Aromatic Spices for a Rich Flavor

The spices used in this recipe—paprika, oregano, chili powder, and red pepper flakes—give the chicken its distinctive flavor profile. Paprika, with its sweet and smoky taste, is a staple in many Portuguese dishes. It complements the richness of the chicken, adding depth and color to the dish. Oregano, a herb commonly used in Mediterranean and Portuguese cooking, contributes an earthy and slightly peppery flavor that enhances the overall seasoning.

Chili powder and red pepper flakes add a gentle heat to the marinade, creating a subtle spiciness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the chicken. The chili heat isn’t overpowering, but it adds an intriguing kick that elevates the dish. Together, these spices create a balanced, multi-dimensional flavor that makes every bite of chicken a delightful experience.

Baking the Chicken to Perfection

The baking process is simple yet effective in creating juicy and tender chicken with a beautifully roasted exterior. The chicken is first baked covered in foil, allowing it to cook gently and retain moisture. During this time, the marinade continues to infuse the meat, ensuring that the chicken absorbs all the wonderful flavors.

After the initial baking, the foil is removed, and the chicken is basted with the reserved marinade. This step helps to further enhance the flavor and encourages the formation of a golden-brown, crispy exterior. The final baking stage allows the chicken to crisp up while ensuring that the meat reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Why Bone-In Chicken Legs Work Best

Bone-in chicken legs are ideal for this recipe because they offer a richer flavor and juicier texture compared to boneless cuts. The bone helps retain moisture during the cooking process, ensuring that the chicken stays tender. Additionally, the skin on the chicken legs crisps up beautifully when roasted, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the juicy meat inside.

The bone also adds flavor to the chicken, as it releases savory juices during baking, further enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Bone-in chicken legs are also more forgiving than boneless cuts, making them easier to cook without drying out, even when baked at a moderate temperature.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Portuguese Chicken

Homemade Portuguese Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its rich and zesty flavor profile. For a traditional Portuguese-inspired meal, consider serving the chicken with rice pilaf or roasted potatoes. The rice can absorb the savory juices from the chicken, while the potatoes offer a crispy, satisfying contrast to the tender meat.

For a lighter option, a simple green salad with fresh vegetables and a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken, adding a refreshing crunch to the meal. Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes, also make a perfect accompaniment, providing a burst of color and flavor.

If you’re in the mood for something more comforting, consider serving the chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or couscous. These sides will soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken, creating a harmonious meal that’s both filling and delicious.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This Homemade Portuguese Chicken recipe offers not only rich flavor but also several health benefits. Chicken legs are an excellent source of protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair. The olive oil used in the marinade is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce inflammation.

Garlic is known for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system and support cardiovascular health. The lemon juice provides a good dose of vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps maintain healthy skin. The addition of herbs and spices such as oregano, paprika, and chili powder not only enhances the flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Conclusion

Homemade Portuguese Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the bright acidity of lemon with the rich depth of garlic, paprika, and spices. The marination process ensures that the chicken is infused with bold flavors, while the slow baking technique creates a tender and juicy result. The combination of crispy skin and succulent meat makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser, ideal for family meals or special occasions.

This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Portugal into your kitchen with minimal effort, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you serve it with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, Homemade Portuguese Chicken is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. So why not try this easy yet delicious recipe tonight? It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.