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Pollo Asado Recipe served with rice and salad.

Pollo Asado Recipe

This pollo asado recipe delivers a burst of vibrant flavors perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering. Learn how to create this delicious dish with simple steps and fresh ingredients.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 4 minutes
Total Time 54 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Latin American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Baking Dish
  • Large Skillet
  • Resealable Bag or Large Bowl

Ingredients
 

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Chicken

  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs or legs)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. This is your pollo asado marinade. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
    Pollo Asado Recipe marinade ingredients in a bowl.
  • Place the chicken pieces into a resealable bag or a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight for the most tender result. Remove from the refrigerator and let come to room temperature before cooking.
    Chicken marinating in a sealed bag for Pollo Asado Recipe.
  • Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be mindful of flare-ups, and move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill if needed.
    Chicken cooking on a grill for Pollo Asado Recipe.
  • Roasting Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken pieces in a baking dish, spacing them evenly. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For crispier skin, you can broil it for the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Pan-Frying Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, skin-side down first, and sear for 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Consider adding a little water to the skillet to help steam the chicken, ensuring it cooks through completely if the meat is very thick.
  • Let the cooked pollo asado rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve with rice, beans, tortillas, and fresh salad, avocado or your favorite sides.

Notes

Adjust spices and ingredients to your taste. For spicier pollo asado, add chipotle peppers, jalapeños, or red pepper flakes. For a sweet and tangy version, include honey or brown sugar in the marinade. Fresh herbs like cilantro, thyme, or oregano can also be added to enhance the flavor.
Keyword Chicken, Citrus, Grilled, Roasted