This Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado is bursting with flavor! Imagine juicy chicken marinated in zesty lime juice, garlic, and your favorite spices, all grilled to perfection. Yum!
It’s perfect for backyard barbecues or family dinners. I love serving it with warm tortillas and fresh salsa—a simple meal that brings everyone together. Who doesn’t love a good chicken feast? 🐔🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: These cuts bring juiciness and flavor, but you can swap them for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember they cook quicker, so watch the grill time!
Oranges and Limes: Fresh juice is key for that zesty flavor. If oranges are out of season, substitute with more limes, or use lemon juice for a different citrus twist. Always taste as you go!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best taste. In a pinch, garlic powder works too—just reduce the amount by about half, as it’s more concentrated.
Chili Powder and Cumin: These spices are essential for flavor. If you’re looking for milder spices, use paprika instead of chili powder. Otherwise, feel free to add more chili powder for heat or try chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but you can use any cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil is a great substitute since it has a high smoke point and a mild taste.
How Do I Get My Chicken Grilled to Perfection?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken can be tricky, but here are some simple steps to make it easier! The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This is crucial for good sear marks and crispy skin.
- Place the chicken skin-side down first. This allows the skin to crisp up beautifully without sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You’re looking for 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This helps retain juices, making each bite tender and flavorful.
Remember, grilling times can vary based on your grill and the size of your chicken. It’s always best to check early and avoid overcooking!
How to Make Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 4 chicken drumsticks
For the Marinade:
- 3 oranges, juiced
- 2 limes, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions, for grilling and garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 hours for marinating plus 30 minutes for grilling. Overall, set aside about 2.5 hours so you can allow the chicken to soak up all that delicious flavor before grilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the juice of the three oranges, the juice of the two limes, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix everything together well to create a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have time. This will really enhance the flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready for the chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes on each side, keeping an eye on it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin looks deliciously charred and crispy.
5. Grill the Green Onions:
While the chicken is grilling, toss some green onions in the leftover marinade. Grill them alongside the chicken until they’re charred and tender. They make a great addition to your plate!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, serve your grilled pollo asado with the grilled green onions, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs and Drumsticks?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breasts! However, chicken breasts are leaner and may dry out more quickly on the grill. To avoid this, consider marinating them for a shorter time (about 1 hour) and grilling them for roughly 5-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Citrus Juice?
If you don’t have fresh oranges or limes, you can use bottled citrus juice in a pinch. Just be sure to choose 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor. You can use about 1/2 cup of bottled juice for the combined orange and lime juices.
How Should I Store Leftover Pollo Asado?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use the oven or a microwave, but for best results, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to keep the skin crispy.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to marinate the chicken. Just give it a good stir before adding the chicken, as the ingredients may settle or separate.
