Crispy and Tender Fried Chicken (Frango Frito Crocante e Suculento)

1. Place 2 peeled and chopped garlic cloves into a mortar and add THE 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
2. Mash the garlic with the salt until it forms a paste.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of the ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of the sweet paprika, and freshly ground black pepper to the mortar and mix well.
4. Add the juice of half a lemon and mix again.
5. Mix the 1.76 pounds (800 grams) of chicken pieces with the prepared seasoning.
6. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
7. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a skillet over medium heat and wait for the sugar to dissolve.
8. Once the sugar has dissolved, place the marinated chicken pieces in the skillet.
9. Brown the chicken on one side over medium heat, being careful not to burn it.
10. Turn the chicken pieces and brown the other side.
11. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet and cover it.
12. Cook the chicken for about 20 minutes over medium heat, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent excessive browning.
13. Check if the chicken is fully cooked after this time, if not, continue cooking until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
14. Serve the chicken hot.

Recipe & Photo Credit: Bonviveur.es