Introduction
Do you love juicy, flavorful chicken with a hint of smoky goodness? If yes, then you’re going to love Pollo Asado! “Pollo Asado” means “grilled chicken” in Spanish. It’s a popular dish in Latin America, especially in Mexico, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. What makes this chicken special is the marinade—a tasty mix of citrus juice, garlic, and spices that soaks into the meat and gives it a rich, bold flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a barbecue with friends, Pollo Asado is a simple and delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. And the best part? You can cook it on a grill, in the oven, or even in a pan! Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful dish at home.
Ingredients – Pollo Asado
Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need to make Pollo Asado:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 to 3 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on is best for flavor)
Step-by-Step Process – Pollo Asado
Follow these easy steps to make your own delicious Pollo Asado at home:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and all the spices (cumin, oregano, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper). Stir well until everything is combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag or a container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated well.
- Seal the bag or cover the container and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For best flavor, marinate it overnight.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
You can cook Pollo Asado in three different ways:
a) On the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off extra liquid.
- Grill the chicken for about 6–8 minutes per side, or until it’s fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer if needed. The chicken is done when the inside temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
b) In the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
c) In a Pan (Stovetop):
- Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for about 7–10 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces.
- Cover the pan to help it cook evenly and prevent dryness.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
You can serve it with rice, grilled veggies, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 22 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 3 grams |
| Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Vitamin C | 10% Daily Value |
| Iron | 8% Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! You can use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts tend to dry out faster than thighs.
Q2: How long should I marinate the chicken?
It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. But for the deepest flavor, let it marinate overnight.
Q3: Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?
Yes, you can! Just place the chicken and marinade in a zip-top freezer bag and freeze it. When you’re ready to cook, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then cook as usual.
Q4: What side dishes go well with Pollo Asado?
Pollo Asado goes great with Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, guacamole, or even tortillas. It’s very versatile!
Q5: Is Pollo Asado spicy?
Not really. It has bold flavor but not too much heat. If you like it spicy, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some jalapeños to the marinade.
Final Thoughts
Pollo Asado is a simple and tasty chicken dish that’s packed with bold flavors from garlic, citrus, and spices. Whether you’re grilling it on a summer day or baking it for a family dinner, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
The best thing? It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or cooking skills. Just mix the marinade, let the chicken soak up all the flavor, and cook it your way. Try it once, and it might just become a new favorite in your kitchen!
