Description
This Pollo Asado recipe is a flavorful, tangy grilled chicken dish inspired by Chipotle’s classic marinade. Featuring a smoky chipotle pepper and citrus marinade, this easy-to-make recipe results in juicy, tender chicken thighs or breasts with a perfect char from grilling. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout, it’s packed with bold flavors and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Marinade
- 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 4 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 4 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground coriander (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 4-5 tbsp water (optional for pan frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine the chipotle peppers, lime juice, orange juice, fresh cilantro, garlic cloves, quartered onion, cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts into a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat until hot. This high heat is essential to achieve the signature char and to cook the chicken evenly.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place it on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain its juices. Slice the chicken as desired and serve it with your favorite sides such as rice, beans, or grilled vegetables.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
- Add water to the marinade if you plan to pan-fry the chicken instead of grilling.
- Use chicken thighs for more juiciness; breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust the number of chipotle peppers based on your preferred spice level.
