Portuguese Lemon & Garlic Roast Chicken
This classic Portuguese-inspired roast chicken features a vibrant marinade of lemon, garlic, and paprika, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat with crispy skin.
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, 1 teaspoon sea salt, chili powder, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and ground black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken leg quarters in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Arrange the marinated chicken leg quarters in a single layer in a large roasting pan. Discard the bay leaf from the chicken before roasting, or leave it in for extra flavor and remove before serving.
- Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The skin should be crispy and golden brown.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Season with an additional pinch of sea salt if desired, to taste. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Embrace the robust flavors of Portugal with this simple yet sensational chicken dish. Marinated in a pungent blend of lemon, garlic, and spices, the chicken roasts to perfection, offering a taste of authentic home cooking. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any weeknight or special gathering.