A Brief History of Portuguese Grilled Chicken
Portuguese Grilled Chicken has its origins in the rustic traditions of Portuguese homes, where family and food have always gone hand-in-hand. Grilling over charcoal has been a key method of cooking in Portugal for centuries, especially in rural areas where people relied on open flames to prepare daily meals.
In Portuguese cuisine, it’s not uncommon for family recipes to be passed down through generations. The marinade for this chicken—featuring garlic, lemon, and paprika—has long been a staple in Portuguese households, providing a bright yet smoky flavor that defines the dish. The use of a whole butterflied chicken allows for quicker and even cooking, leading to crispy, golden skin and tender meat.
The dish became more well-known globally as a result of the Portuguese colonial influence in Africa, especially in Mozambique and Angola, where flavors like peri-peri (a type of spicy pepper) were added to the mix. Today, Portuguese Grilled Chicken is famous worldwide, not only in Portuguese communities but also as a favorite offering in many barbecue and Mediterranean-inspired restaurants.
A Brief History of Portuguese Grilled Chicken
Portuguese Grilled Chicken has its origins in the rustic traditions of Portuguese homes, where family and food have always gone hand-in-hand. Grilling over charcoal has been a key method of cooking in Portugal for centuries, especially in rural areas where people relied on open flames to prepare daily meals.
In Portuguese cuisine, it’s not uncommon for family recipes to be passed down through generations. The marinade for this chicken—featuring garlic, lemon, and paprika—has long been a staple in Portuguese households, providing a bright yet smoky flavor that defines the dish. The use of a whole butterflied chicken allows for quicker and even cooking, leading to crispy, golden skin and tender meat.
The dish became more well-known globally as a result of the Portuguese colonial influence in Africa, especially in Mozambique and Angola, where flavors like peri-peri (a type of spicy pepper) were added to the mix. Today, Portuguese Grilled Chicken is famous worldwide, not only in Portuguese communities but also as a favorite offering in many barbecue and Mediterranean-inspired restaurants.
