Pollo Asado
Juicy, tender grilled chicken bursting with the vibrant flavors of citrus, achiote, and Mexican spices. This classic Pollo Asado recipe is perfect for tacos, burritos, or a flavorful main course, bringing the taste of your favorite taqueria right to your backyard. The key is a long marination to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade
- b.In a blender, combine the orange juice, lime juice, achiote paste, white vinegar, peeled garlic cloves, Mexican oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Blend on high for 60-90 seconds until the marinade is completely smooth, vibrant red-orange, and no chunks of garlic or paste remain.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Chicken
- b.Place the chicken thighs in a large, non-reactive bowl or a large resealable plastic bag.
- c.Pour the blended marinade over the chicken, turning each piece to ensure it is thoroughly coated.
- d.Seal the bag (removing as much air as possible) or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but for the best, most authentic flavor, marinate overnight (8-12 hours).
- 3
Step 3
- a.Preheat and Prepare the Grill
- b.About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to allow it to come closer to room temperature.
- c.Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to a consistent medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- d.Once hot, clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush. Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in canola oil to grease the grates. This prevents the chicken from sticking.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Chicken
- b.Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- c.Place the chicken on the hot grill, leaving some space between each piece. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side, until you have nice char marks and it releases easily from the grate.
- d.Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-8 minutes on the second side. The chicken is done when it's cooked through and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Transfer the cooked pollo asado to a clean cutting board or platter.
- c.Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist and tender.
- d.After resting, you can serve the thighs whole, or slice or chop them for tacos, salads, or burrito bowls. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the juiciest results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken breasts can be used but require careful monitoring to avoid drying out.
- 2Marinating overnight is highly recommended. The extended time allows the citrus and spices to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
- 3A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness. Grilling times can vary based on the thickness of the chicken and the heat of your grill.
- 4Avoid pressing down on the chicken with your spatula while it's grilling. This squeezes out the flavorful juices.
- 5Let the chicken rest! This is a non-negotiable step for tender, juicy grilled chicken.
- 6If you don't have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a cast-iron grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat or broil it in the oven.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Pollo Asado
Add 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or one fresh, de-seeded serrano chile to the blender with the other marinade ingredients for a smoky, spicy kick.
Whole Spatchcocked ChickenWhole Spatchcocked Chicken
Use a whole, spatchcocked (butterflied) chicken instead of thighs. Double the marinade recipe and marinate for 12-24 hours. Grill over indirect heat until cooked through.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This marinade works wonderfully on pork chops or firm fish like swordfish. Adjust grilling times accordingly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken is a high-quality protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and promoting a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
Immunity-Boosting Vitamin C
The fresh orange and lime juices in the marinade are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system and protect cells from damage.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken provides essential B vitamins like niacin (B3) and pyridoxine (B6), which are crucial for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Frequently asked questions
A typical 150g serving of this Pollo Asado contains approximately 250-300 calories, primarily from the chicken protein and fats. The marinade adds minimal calories.