The flavorful Brazilian chicken marinade (Tempero Baiano) is a quick and easy seasoning that turns plain chicken pieces into succulent, juicy baked chicken the whole family will love. Bake it in the oven or air fryer.
In a clean coffee grinder or spice mill, combine 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, ½ teaspoon coriander seeds, 11 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black peppercorns, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Process until finely ground
In a small bowl, combine the ground spices with ¼ cup fresh lime juice and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Place 1½ pounds chicken pieces in a resealable bag. Add the marinade, seal and massage until the chicken is well coated. .
Marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
TO BAKE THE BRAZILIAN CHICKEN IN AN AIR FRYER:
When you are ready to cook, pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and arrange them, skin side up in the air fryer basket.
Set the air fryer to 400° for 20-25 minutes, turning the legs halfway through the cooking time.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°.
TO BAKE IN THE OVEN:
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet.
Pat the chicken pieces dry using a paper towel and arrange them on the wire rack. Bake for 20-30 minutes (depending on how large your chicken pieces are), flipping the meat halfway through to continue baking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°.
Notes
Note: chicken cooking times may vary depending on how large your pieces are.
Drumsticks and wings should take between 20-25 minutes.
Chicken thighs will take between 25-30 minutes.
Whole, bone-in chicken breasts can take 35-40 minutes
Cut the whole chicken breasts in half to reduce cooking time to 25-30.
Always use a meat thermometer to check that the meat has reached an internal temperature of 165°F - a food safe doneness.