Description
Pollo Asado is a vibrant, citrus-marinated grilled chicken dish featuring a flavorful blend of orange, lime, and lemon juices with smoky paprika, garlic, and fresh cilantro. This traditional Latin American recipe results in juicy, tender chicken with a crispy charred exterior, perfect for a casual family meal or festive gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped fresh cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks into a large resealable plastic bag or baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer oven cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) instead.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the skin is nicely crisped and charred in spots. If you are oven roasting, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 to 30 minutes until fully cooked and browned.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve alongside your favorite sides for a delicious and authentic Pollo Asado experience.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Grilling adds a traditional smoky flavor, but oven roasting is a convenient alternative.
- Skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces retain moisture and develop crisp skin better than boneless options.
- Serve with rice, beans, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
