Description
Pollo Asado is a vibrant and flavorful grilled chicken dish marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, herbs, and spices. This traditional Latin American recipe features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks that are marinated to perfection and then grilled or roasted to achieve tender meat with a crispy, charred skin. Perfect for a family meal or entertaining guests, Pollo Asado offers a delicious balance of smoky, tangy, and herbaceous flavors.
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, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to permeate the meat.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, if using an oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. If grilling, cook the chicken on the grill for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, turning until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy with some charred spots. If baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Pair with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Pollo Asado.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken ensures juicy meat and crispy skin.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Leftover Pollo Asado can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Feel free to add a pinch of chili powder or fresh chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
