This authentic Portuguese chicken recipe combines flavorful marinated chicken with a tangy and savory sauce. The chicken is marinated in a blend of garlic, paprika, lemon juice, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. The sauce, made from a combination of tomatoes, onions, and spices, adds a delicious twist to this classic dish. Serve with rice or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the sauce is heated through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter and pour the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve the Portuguese chicken with rice or crusty bread.
Interesting Facts
Portuguese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and combination of spices.
The use of paprika and lemon juice in the marinade gives the chicken a delicious tangy and smoky flavor.
Grilling the chicken adds a charred and smoky taste to the dish.
The sauce made from tomatoes and onions adds a savory and aromatic element to this Portuguese chicken recipe.