Description
Pollo Asado is a vibrant and flavorful Latin-inspired grilled chicken dish marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, fresh cilantro, garlic, and aromatic spices. This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks with a deliciously charred exterior and an irresistible smoky aroma, perfect for a satisfying family meal or a 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 in a large resealable plastic bag or a 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, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, if baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. For grilling, place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy with charred spots. For baking, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked and skin is crispy.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the zesty, smoky flavors of Pollo Asado.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill.
- If grilling is unavailable, baking produces similarly delicious results.
- Serve with rice, beans, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
