Butterflied Portuguese Chicken | Spicy Piri Piri Recipe
Table of Contents
Introduction
Butterflied Portuguese Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the rich culinary traditions of Portugal with a unique cooking technique. This dish is known for its juicy and tender chicken, infused with a medley of herbs and spices that create a truly unforgettable dining experience. In this blog post, we will explore the origins of Butterflied Portuguese Chicken, delve into the key ingredients that make this dish so special, and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to recreate this mouthwatering recipe in your own kitchen.
History and Origins
Portuguese cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and diverse influences, ranging from Mediterranean to African and Asian. Butterflied Portuguese Chicken, also known as Frango Piri-Piri, is a popular dish that has its roots in the Algarve region of Portugal. Traditionally, the chicken is marinated in a spicy Piri-Piri sauce made from fiery red chilies, garlic, and citrus, giving it a unique and vibrant taste.
Over the years, Butterflied Portuguese Chicken has gained popularity not only in Portugal but also around the world, thanks to its delicious taste and relatively simple preparation. The dish is often grilled or roasted to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin and succulent meat that will leave you craving for more.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking to impress your family and friends with a new culinary creation, Butterflied Portuguese Chicken is a fantastic choice that will delight your taste buds and transport you to the sunny shores of Portugal.
Key Ingredients
The key to making authentic Butterflied Portuguese Chicken lies in using the right combination of ingredients to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. Here are some of the essential components that you will need for this recipe:
1. Whole chicken, butterflied: The star of the dish, a whole chicken that has been flattened to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
2. Piri-Piri sauce: A spicy marinade made from red chilies, garlic, olive oil, and citrus juices that adds a fiery kick to the chicken.
3. Fresh herbs: A mixture of fresh herbs such as parsley, oregano, and thyme to enhance the aroma and taste of the chicken.
4. Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that help bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
5. Lemon wedges: Served on the side to add a touch of freshness and acidity to the dish.
Cooking Instructions
To prepare Butterflied Portuguese Chicken, follow these simple steps:
1. Start by marinating the butterflied chicken in the Piri-Piri sauce, ensuring that it is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat your grill or oven to the desired temperature (usually around 375°F to 400°F) and prepare it for indirect cooking.
3. Place the marinated chicken on the grill or in the oven, skin side down, and cook for about 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken.
4. Flip the chicken over and continue cooking for another 20-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Butterflied Portuguese Chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salad, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of cooling yogurt or tzatziki sauce to balance out the heat from the Piri-Piri marinade. This dish is ideal for sharing with family and friends, making it a great option for gatherings and special occasions.
So why not bring a taste of Portugal to your table with this delicious Butterflied Portuguese Chicken recipe? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for bold and flavorful cuisine. Give it a try today and experience the magic of Portuguese cooking in the comfort of your own home!
Butterflied Portuguese Chicken
Butterflied Portuguese Chicken, also known as Frango Piri-Piri, is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the rich culinary traditions of Portugal with a unique cooking technique. The chicken is marinated in a spicy Piri-Piri sauce, grilled or roasted to perfection, resulting in a crispy skin and succulent meat that delights the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, butterflied
- Piri-Piri sauce (made from red chilies, garlic, olive oil, and citrus juices)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, thyme)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Lemon wedges
Directions
- Start by marinating the butterflied chicken in the Piri-Piri sauce for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill or oven to 375-400°F for indirect cooking.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill or in the oven, skin side down, and cook for 30-40 minutes.
- Flip the chicken over and continue cooking for another 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the grill or oven, let it rest, and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges before serving.
