Tips for perfect chicken thighs
- Make sure the chicken thighs are not too tightly packed in the dish – this will make the skin crispier.
- If you like, you can add halved onions or strips of bell pepper to the dish during baking. They absorb the flavor and complement the dish perfectly.
- You can pour any leftover marinade over the meat in the last 10 minutes, but only if it has been cooked beforehand (for hygiene reasons).
- If you want to prepare the dish in advance, you can marinate the chicken thighs in the morning and bake them fresh in the evening.
Origin and significance in Portuguese cuisine
In Portugal, chicken is one of the most popular meats. Especially in rural areas, oven-baked chicken is a popular Sunday meal. It is often prepared in large quantities to feed the whole family.
The spices reflect what defines Portuguese cuisine: simplicity, freshness, and a deep connection to Mediterranean tradition. The use of lemon and garlic is typical in many dishes. Paprika adds color and depth to the flavor without dominating.
Storage and leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator – in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The oven is better for reheating than the microwave, as this keeps the skin crispy. The chicken thighs also taste great cold – for example, as a topping for a sandwich with lettuce leaves and a little aioli. Whether for everyday use or a weekend dinner with guests – this dish impresses with its flavor, juiciness, and crispy skin. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll definitely want to make it again.
Tips for perfect chicken thighs
- Make sure the chicken thighs are not too tightly packed in the dish – this will make the skin crispier.
- If you like, you can add halved onions or strips of bell pepper to the dish during baking. They absorb the flavor and complement the dish perfectly.
- You can pour any leftover marinade over the meat in the last 10 minutes, but only if it has been cooked beforehand (for hygiene reasons).
- If you want to prepare the dish in advance, you can marinate the chicken thighs in the morning and bake them fresh in the evening.
Origin and significance in Portuguese cuisine
In Portugal, chicken is one of the most popular meats. Especially in rural areas, oven-baked chicken is a popular Sunday meal. It is often prepared in large quantities to feed the whole family.
The spices reflect what defines Portuguese cuisine: simplicity, freshness, and a deep connection to Mediterranean tradition. The use of lemon and garlic is typical in many dishes. Paprika adds color and depth to the flavor without dominating.
Storage and leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator – in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The oven is better for reheating than the microwave, as this keeps the skin crispy. The chicken thighs also taste great cold – for example, as a topping for a sandwich with lettuce leaves and a little aioli. Whether for everyday use or a weekend dinner with guests – this dish impresses with its flavor, juiciness, and crispy skin. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll definitely want to make it again.
