Portuguese-Style Roast Chicken

A flavorful, juicy roasted chicken marinated in Portuguese spices, garlic, and lemon, cooked to golden perfection. This dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, known for its rich seasoning and crispy, flavorful skin.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Portuguese flavors – A blend of paprika, garlic, and peri-peri sauce gives the chicken a deliciously spiced taste.
• Juicy and tender meat – The marinade keeps the chicken moist while roasting.
• Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal effort make this a great weeknight or weekend meal.
• Perfectly crispy skin – Roasting at the right temperature ensures a golden, crisp exterior.
• Great for any occasion – Serve it for family dinners, gatherings, or special celebrations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon peri-peri sauce (or chili flakes)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, cumin, peri-peri sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, and honey.
3. Rub the marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 60-75 minutes, basting occasionally, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
6. Serve with roasted potatoes and a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (+1 hour marination)
• Cooking Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicier Version: Add more peri-peri sauce or fresh chopped chilies for extra heat.
• Herb-Infused: Use fresh rosemary or thyme in the marinade for an aromatic touch.
• Grilled Frango Assado: Instead of roasting, grill the chicken over medium heat for a smoky flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice with orange juice for a slightly sweeter profile.
• Butter-Basted: Add melted butter while roasting for extra richness and crispier skin.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.

FAQs

What is Frango Assado?

Frango Assado is a traditional Portuguese-style roast chicken, seasoned with spices, garlic, and citrus.

Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in thighs, drumsticks, or breasts and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is peri-peri sauce necessary?

No, but it adds a nice heat. You can substitute it with cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavors and results in a more tender chicken.

What is the best side dish for Portuguese roast chicken?

Roasted potatoes, rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad pair well.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, turning halfway through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part.

What’s the difference between Frango Assado and Peri-Peri Chicken?

Frango Assado is more of a traditional roast, while peri-peri chicken typically has a spicier, chili-based sauce.

Can I use white vinegar instead of white wine vinegar?

Yes, but white wine vinegar gives a more authentic flavor.

How can I get extra crispy skin?

Roast at a higher temperature (400°F) for the last 10 minutes, or broil briefly to crisp up the skin.

Conclusion

Portuguese-Style Roast Chicken (Frango Assado) is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the best of Portuguese cuisine to your table. With its bold spices, juicy texture, and crispy skin, this dish is perfect for family meals or special occasions. Try it today and enjoy a true taste of Portugal!