Print

Spicy Portuguese Chilli Chicken

Experience the bold and fiery flavors of Spicy Portuguese Chilli Chicken, a perfect blend of tender chicken marinated in a vibrant chili and paprika sauce, ideal for a flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 kg chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-3 dried red chillies, crushed
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 200 ml crushed tomatoes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, crushed dried chillies, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, cayenne pepper, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and stir until softened, about 3 minutes.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
  6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra smokiness, try grilling the chicken after marinating instead of cooking it in a skillet.