If you’re craving something bright, smoky, and oh-so-satisfying, the Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe is your new best friend. This dish brings together juicy chicken thighs infused with a zesty blend of fresh lime and orange juices, kissed with spices that deliver a smoky, mildly spicy kick. Perfectly charred on the grill and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe that turns any meal into a festive celebration of bold, citrusy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, fresh ingredients is all you need to create this vibrant Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the tangy citrus brightness to the smoky spices that give the chicken its irresistible character.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juicy, tender meat that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent warmth and depth that balances the citrus.
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice: Gives a sharp, tangy punch that awakens the palate.
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice: Brings a sweet citrus layer that softens the acidity.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and keeps it moist during grilling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness with a hint of smokiness that enhances the grilled flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a rich, smoky note that defines the Pollo Loco character.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a mild heat that doesn’t overpower, just teases.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a gentle herbal aroma, complementing the spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning the meat perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and rounds out the heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a little extra kick, it brings that fiery spark.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Brings a fresh, vibrant finish that ties together all the flavors on the plate.
How to Make Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the bright and flavorful marinade ingredients—fresh lime and orange juices, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and the optional cayenne pepper. This aromatic mix is where the magic begins, marrying citrusy brightness with smoky spices to create the very soul of this Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover and pop it into the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This step allows all those delicious flavors to soak deep into the meat, making every bite bursting with zest and spice.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This temperature is perfect for getting that lovely char on the chicken outside while keeping it juicy inside—giving you the signature grilled texture that makes this Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off to prevent flare-ups on the grill. Grill each thigh for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the exterior has those delicious char marks. The result should be chicken that’s tender and smoky with a slight caramelized crispness on the edges.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Garnish
Once grilled, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to redistribute the juices and keep it tender. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a pop of herbaceous brightness that perfectly complements the smoky citrus marinade.
How to Serve Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the traditional and perfect garnish—it adds a burst of vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly citrusy herbal note. For an extra touch, you could add thin slices of lime or a few chili flakes if you like a hint of heat with your presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with sides that balance its bold flavors. Think fluffy cilantro-lime rice, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp, refreshing salad with avocado and tomato. The goal is to complement the zesty spiced chicken with sides that add texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual yet eye-catching meal, serve the grilled chicken thighs on a bed of warm corn tortillas and top with salsa and avocado slices for fantastic tacos. Alternatively, slice the chicken and layer it over a colorful grain bowl packed with black beans, corn, and fresh veggies for a wholesome, vibrant meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days and are perfect for quick lunches or adding extra protein to your salads.
Freezing
You can freeze grilled chicken thighs wrapped tightly or in a freezer-safe container. To preserve the best texture and flavor of this Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe, aim to use frozen chicken within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently to avoid drying them out—warming in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth keeps the meat juicy. You can also microwave on medium power, covered, to maintain moisture while heating through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used but keep in mind they are leaner and might dry out faster on the grill. Adjust grilling time accordingly and consider marinating a bit longer to keep them moist.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 2 hours is needed to let the flavors penetrate the meat, but marinating overnight intensifies the taste even more. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours to avoid texture changes from the citrus acids.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is mild by default thanks to the chili powder and smoked paprika. If you like it spicier, adding cayenne pepper is a great way to kick up the heat without overpowering the citrus flavors.
Can I make this dish indoors without a grill?
Yes! A grill pan on the stovetop or even a broiler can mimic the grilling effect. Just watch closely and turn frequently to prevent burning while getting a nice charred finish.
What can I serve with this chicken for a complete meal?
Pair the grilled thighs with grains like rice or quinoa, plenty of fresh vegetables or a salad, and perhaps some warm tortillas to impress your family or guests with a flavorful and balanced spread.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of bright citrus, smoky spices, and tender chicken that comes together easily but tastes like you spent hours crafting it. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find it becoming a go-to favorite that brings a little fiesta to your table every time you fire up the grill.
Print
Grilled Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs (Pollo Loco) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Pollo Loco is a vibrant and flavorful grilled chicken dish featuring a zesty marinade made with fresh lime and orange juices, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfectly charred on the grill, this Mexican-inspired recipe is easy to prepare and bursting with bold, tangy flavors that make it an ideal option for a tasty weeknight dinner or backyard barbecue.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated well. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get a good sear and char for the chicken.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place them on the hot grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior develops a nice charred crust.
- Rest and Garnish: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving to add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the marinade.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs but adjust grilling time accordingly to prevent drying out.
- Marinating overnight will result in more intense flavors, but a minimum of 2 hours is sufficient.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
- Ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
