Portuguese Grilled Chicken (Print)

Juicy butterflied chicken marinated in zesty paprika-garlic blend and grilled to smoky perfection with authentic Portuguese flavors.

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 to 2 kg)
02 - 60 ml olive oil
03 - 60 ml fresh lemon juice
04 - 6 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 tablespoon paprika
06 - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
07 - 2 teaspoons salt
08 - 1 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
11 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
12 - 60 ml white wine vinegar

# Directions:

01 - Butterfly the chicken by removing the backbone and flattening it. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
02 - In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, both paprikas, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), oregano, parsley, and white wine vinegar. Mix well.
03 - Coat the chicken completely with the marinade, massaging it into the meat. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
04 - Heat grill to medium-high heat (approximately 200°C). If using an oven, preheat to 220°C.
05 - Place chicken skin-side down first and grill for 10-12 minutes. Flip and continue grilling for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 75°C.
06 - If roasting, place chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 40-45 minutes at 220°C, turning halfway through cooking time.
07 - Allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before carving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For authentic Portuguese flavor, use a traditional clay pot if available for oven roasting.
02 - This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes or a simple green salad.