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Pollo Asado

Deliciously Juicy Pollo Asado: Your New Favorite Grill Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Pollo Asado, a juicy grilled chicken marinated in citrus and spices.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup orange juice Substitution: Lemon juice can be used for a different citrus flavor.
  • 1/4 cup lime juice No substitutions needed for main flavor.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil for a similar texture.
  • 4 cloves garlic Use garlic powder as a substitute; 1 tsp equals 1 clove.
  • 2 tablespoons achiote powder Substitution: Achiote paste can be used if powder is unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin No direct substitute, but can use coriander for similar warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander Use a mix of cumin if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Regular oregano can be a substitute but may alter flavor slightly.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt Avoid using table salt as it is saltier by volume.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Can substitute with white pepper for a different flavor profile.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds chicken (thighs, legs, breast) Use boneless cuts for quicker cooking but bone-in is preferred for more flavor.
For Garnish
  • 2 pieces lime wedges Optional garnishes for freshness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Enhances presentation.

Equipment

  • grill
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • resealable bag
  • thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large resealable bag or mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, achiote powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add your choice of chicken pieces to the marinade bag, sealing to avoid spills. Massage the bag gently to coat each piece thoroughly in the marinade.
  3. Preheat your grill for direct and indirect heat zones. If baking, set your oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan with foil.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess liquid. Grill the pieces over direct heat for approximately 20 minutes.
  5. Once cooked through, transfer the Pollo Asado to a platter and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1chicken pieceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 28gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Marinate wisely, and avoid over-marinating to preserve chicken texture. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness of 165°F.

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