Pollo Asado Recipe

Pollo Asado Recipe

This Pollo Asado recipe offers a deliciously authentic Mexican grilled chicken dish marinated in a flavorful blend of citrus, spices, and herbs. Perfect for summer cookouts or family dinners, this pollo asado is juicy, smoky, and full of vibrant flavors. Served with your choice of sides like rice, beans, or tortillas, this dish brings a taste of Mexico right to your table. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this pollo asado recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a household favorite.

Description

Pollo asado, or “grilled chicken,” is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and this recipe captures its essence with a perfectly balanced marinade. The marinade combines citrus, garlic, chilies, and a mix of seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken, creating a juicy and smoky meal. While you can grill the chicken over charcoal for an authentic smoky taste, this recipe can also be adapted to a stovetop or oven for convenience.

The beauty of pollo asado lies in its versatility. The marinade is not overly complicated, but the result is a tender, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with fresh salsa, guacamole, and a side of warm tortillas. This dish is also a great choice for meal prep, as the chicken can be grilled in bulk and stored in the fridge for a few days.

Marinade Ingredients: The marinade for pollo asado contains ingredients that are commonly found in Mexican kitchens. Orange juice adds a citrusy tang, while lime juice brings a bit of zest. The garlic and cumin provide depth and earthiness, and chili powder adds a mild heat. Paprika and oregano round out the flavor profile with smoky and herbal notes, creating a perfect balance.

This recipe can be made with bone in or boneless chicken, depending on your preference. Bone in chicken pieces like thighs and drumsticks work particularly well as they stay moist and flavorful when grilled. However, boneless breasts or thighs can also be used for a quicker cook time.

Pollo Asado Marinade Tips: When marinating the chicken, it’s crucial to let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the meat. For optimal results, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. This gives the citrus and spices time to tenderize the chicken, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

The cooking process is simple. If you’re grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. This should take around 25 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions: Pollo asado is often served with a variety of sides. It pairs beautifully with rice, beans, and corn tortillas. For a fresh contrast, serve it with a side of pico de gallo or guacamole. The smoky, citrusy chicken is the perfect complement to the refreshing crunch of a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, making dinner for your family, or prepping for the week ahead, this pollo asado recipe is sure to please. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to become a go to meal in your repertoire. Try it today and enjoy the delicious, smoky goodness of pollo asado in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

4 bone in chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon white vinegar

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, olive oil, and vinegar until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Preheat the Grill: If you are using a grill, preheat it to mediumhigh heat. If you are cooking indoors, you can use a grill pan or skillet on medium heat.
Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook on the grill for about 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If cooking on the stovetop, cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with rice, beans, tortillas, or your favorite side dishes.

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