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Spicy Portuguese Chilli Chicken

This Spicy Portuguese Chilli Chicken features tender chicken marinated and cooked in a vibrant, smoky chilli and paprika sauce, delivering bold flavors with a perfect kick of heat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp dried chilli flakes
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried chilli flakes, cayenne pepper, sweet paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  2. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine vinegar, and honey to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for another 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken after marinating instead of pan-frying. Serve with crusty bread or steamed rice to balance the heat.