Plate of Portuguese chicken served with golden chips.

Portuguese Chicken and Chips

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Portuguese Chicken and Chips is a delightful meal that brings the flavors of Portugal to your table. The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken and crispy fries makes it a favorite for family dinners and get-togethers. Plus, it’s simple to make! This dish is perfect for those who love bold and savory flavors, and it’s sure to impress your guests.

How to Make Portuguese Chicken and Chips

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (can be substituted with honey)
  • 1 tbsp freshly minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 2 tsp sea salt flakes
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1.2–1.8 kg (2 lb 10 oz–4 lb) whole chicken, butterflied (see note 1)
  • Crispy Oven Fries
  • 1 cup (250 g) good-quality store-bought toum (Lebanese garlic sauce) (see the FAQs above for the recipe)
  • Lemon wedges

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the dried oregano, sweet paprika, brown sugar, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, sea salt, lemon juice, and extra-virgin olive oil.

  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the butterflied chicken in a large dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the marinated chicken on a baking tray, skin side up. Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

  4. Make the Crispy Oven Fries: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the crispy oven fries according to your favorite recipe.

  5. Serve: Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Serve with crispy fries, a dollop of toum, and fresh lemon wedges on the side.

How to Serve Portuguese Chicken and Chips

Serve the chicken hot, sliced into pieces, accompanied by a generous portion of crispy fries. Add a side of toum for dipping and squeeze some fresh lemon juice over everything for a burst of flavor. This meal is great for sharing with family and friends.

How to Store Portuguese Chicken and Chips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and fries separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispiness. The fries can also be reheated in the oven or air fryer.

Tips to Make Portuguese Chicken and Chips

  • For a more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
  • Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for better taste.
  • Experiment with adding your favorite herbs or spices to the marinade for a unique twist.

Variation

You can change things up by adding vegetables to the baking tray, like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers, which will roast nicely along with the chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What is toum?
Toum is a Lebanese garlic sauce made from garlic, citrus juice, and oil. It is creamy and flavorful, perfect for dipping.

3. Can I make this dish on a grill instead of the oven?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor. Just make sure to monitor the temperature to cook it through.