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Pollo Asado (Mexican Grilled Chicken) Recipe

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4 from 27 reviews

Pollo Asado is a traditional Mexican grilled chicken dish marinated in a vibrant blend of citrus juices, achiote, garlic, and spices. This recipe yields juicy, flavorful chicken thighs with a delicious charred exterior, perfect for a satisfying meal. Whether cooked on a grill pan, outdoor grill, or roasted in the oven, this dish showcases the rich tastes of Mexican cuisine with a simple yet effective marinade.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including minimum marinating time)
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Marinade

  • ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • ¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • ¼ cup grapeseed oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 ounces achiote powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder

Chicken

  • 3 pounds chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Make the marinade: Combine all marinade ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth to create a vibrant, flavorful base for the chicken.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors.
  3. Preheat grill pan: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to 350°F to ensure proper cooking temperatures.
  4. Cook the chicken: Cook the chicken thighs in batches on the grill pan for 3 to 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. When using an outdoor grill, grill the chicken covered for 20 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be between 165°F and 175°F.
  5. Rest the chicken: After cooking, transfer the chicken to a cutting board or plate and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender chicken.

Notes

  • Ensure the grill pan or outdoor grill is fully preheated to achieve a good char on the chicken.
  • Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but up to 24 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
  • Adjust cooking time if using different cuts of chicken, as thickness affects doneness.
  • You can also roast the chicken in the oven as an alternative cooking method with great results.
  • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is cooked safely to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican