Description
Portuguese Grilled Chicken, also known as “Frango Assado,” is a juicy and flavorful grilled chicken dish marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, smoked paprika, lemon, and herbs. Perfectly charred and tender, this classic Portuguese recipe brings authentic, bold flavors to your grill, ideal for family dinners or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
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4 pounds chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or a whole spatchcocked chicken)
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
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1 tablespoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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Juice of 2 lemons
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¼ cup olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Make Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
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Marinate Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
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Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high. Oil grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade (discard marinade). Grill chicken skin-side down first for 6-8 minutes per side. Continue grilling and turning occasionally until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
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Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
For extra smokiness, use smoked paprika.To keep skin crispy, grill skin-side down first and avoid frequent flipping.Can be cooked indoors on a grill pan or under the broiler.Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.
