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Best Pollo Asado Recipe : Flavorful and Easy Chicken Recipe

Pollo Asado, a Latin-inspired grilled chicken dish, is the perfect blend of bold flavors and tender texture. Originating from Mexico, this dish features juicy chicken marinated in a mix of spices, citrus, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving a vibrant meal, Pollo Asado is a fantastic choice. The marinade is key to infusing the chicken with a rich depth of flavor, while grilling adds a delicious smokiness. This recipe is easy to follow, and the results are nothing short of amazing. What sets Pollo Asado apart from other chicken recipes is its unique combination of ingredients. The use of ingredients like orange juice, garlic, and Mexican spices creates a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Plus, it’s versatile – you can serve it with rice, tacos, or even enjoy it on its own with a side of grilled veggies. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Pollo Asado recipe guarantees an unforgettable meal that will impress everyone at the table. In this article, you’ll learn how to make the best Pollo Asado with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Prepare to elevate your chicken game and enjoy a dish that’s not only delicious but also bursting with authentic Latin flavor!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican

Equipment

  • Grill (Charcoal or Gas)
  • A grill is essential for achieving the smoky, charred flavor that makes Pollo Asado stand out. Whether you use a charcoal or gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat to get the perfect sear on the chicken.
  • Mixing Bowl:
  • A medium-sized mixing bowl is used to whisk together all the ingredients for the marinade. This helps to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and well-combined.
  • Resealable Plastic Bag or Shallow Dish
  • For marinating the chicken, you can either use a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Both options allow the marinade to coat the chicken evenly. A plastic bag helps with easy cleanup and better marinade distribution, while a dish allows for quicker access when you’re ready to cook.
  • Tongs or Spatula:
  • Tongs or a grill spatula are important for flipping the chicken on the grill. Using tongs ensures that the chicken is turned gently, avoiding the risk of piercing it and losing flavorful juices.
  • Meat Thermometer
  • A meat thermometer is crucial to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked. Pollo Asado should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and optimal taste.
  • Serving Platter
  • Once your chicken is grilled and rested, a large serving platter will help display the finished dish beautifully, ready to serve to your guests.
  • Grill Brush
  • To maintain a clean grill, a grill brush is essential. Cleaning the grill grates before cooking ensures that your chicken won’t stick and the cooking process will be smooth.
  • Basting Brush (Optional)
  • If you like to baste your chicken during grilling, a basting brush is helpful to apply extra marinade or glaze to the chicken for added flavor.

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/4 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder optional for extra heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional for depth of flavor
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. This blend of citrus and spices creates the perfect marinade to infuse the chicken with flavor.
  • Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb.
  • Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and ready.
  • Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra char, leave the chicken on the grill for an additional 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and added flavor.

Notes

To make this Pollo Asado even more delicious, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth, incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme into the marinade, and grilling the chicken over indirect heat for a juicier result. For extra flavor, baste the chicken with some of the marinade while grilling, and let it rest after cooking to lock in the juices.