Mexican Grilled Chicken (Pollo Asado) Recipe

This Mexican Grilled Chicken (Pollo Asado) is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, and more! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of citrus juices, spices, and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a delicious and authentic Mexican-inspired dish that’s ready in just minutes (plus marinating time).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Authentic: The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, thanks to the combination of orange and lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and a blend of Mexican spices.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken, making it a versatile option for any cooking method. You can also customize the dish by using different cuts of chicken or adjusting the spice level to your liking.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Chicken is a lean source of protein, and the addition of fresh herbs and citrus juices makes this dish a healthy and satisfying choice.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Orange juice and lime juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the marinade.
• Vegetable oil: Used in the marinade and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
• Onion: Roughly chopped and adds a savory base to the marinade.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch to the marinade.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color.
• Chili powder: Adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
• Cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
• Dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Season the chicken to perfection.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Mexican Grilled Chicken (Pollo Asado)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Marinade

If using chicken breasts, slice them in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. If the breasts are thick, you can pound them to an even thickness of about 1 inch.

In a food processor or blender, combine the orange juice, lime juice, vegetable oil, chopped onion, garlic, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until mostly smooth. Pour the marinade into a large bowl or a zip-top bag. Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Do not marinate for more than 4 hours, as the citrus in the marinade can start to break down the chicken.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375-425°F (190-220°C). Clean the grill grates if needed. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill grates and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for doneness.

Step 3: Rest and Serve

Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t over-marinate: Marinating the chicken for too long in the acidic citrus marinade can make it mushy. Marinate for no more than 4 hours.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature without overcooking it.
• Grill to temperature, not time: Grill temperatures and conditions can vary, so rely on the internal temperature of the chicken rather than just the cooking time to determine doneness.
• Let the chicken rest: Resting the chicken after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or a casual barbecue.

How to Serve

This Mexican Grilled Chicken (Pollo Asado) is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes:

• Tacos: Serve the sliced chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
• Burritos: Use the chicken as a filling for burritos along with rice, beans, and other toppings.
• Salads: Add the grilled chicken to your favorite salad for a protein boost.
• Burrito Bowls: Create a delicious and healthy burrito bowl with a base of rice or quinoa, topped with the grilled chicken, your favorite vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Grilled Chicken is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or in a bowl of hot water before grilling.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces?
Yes, you can! If using bone-in, skin-on chicken, the cooking time will increase significantly. Make sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

2. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

3. Can I make this recipe without the marinade?
While the marinade adds a delicious flavor, you can simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices before grilling or baking.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the marinade?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Mexican Grilled Chicken (Pollo Asado) Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and versatile way to enjoy a delicious and authentic Mexican-inspired meal. With its easy preparation, healthy ingredients, and customizable flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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