This Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado is a tasty dish featuring juicy marinated chicken cooked to perfection on the grill. The zesty flavors and smoky aroma are sure to make your mouth water!
If you’re like me, you’ll be tempted to enjoy this chicken right off the grill—who can resist a good piece of grilled chicken? Serve it with some fresh salsa and tortillas for a delicious feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Leg Quarters: These are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy while grilling. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with bone-in thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil. It has a similar flavor and is great for grilling.
Lime and Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds a vibrant zesty flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work, but I always prefer fresh for the best taste!
Chili Powder: This is essential for that warm flavor. If you want it spicier, try adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy chili powder blend. For milder flavors, use sweet paprika instead.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
The key to flavorful pollo asado is marinating the chicken properly. Start with a good mix of olive oil and acidic ingredients to tenderize the meat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk together all marinade ingredients in a large bowl.
- Add the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Don’t be shy—get in there!
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.
This waiting time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making every bite delicious! Just remember to discard the marinade afterward to avoid any food safety issues.
How to Make Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken leg quarters (thighs and drumsticks)
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Grilled green onions, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled pollo asado takes about 15 minutes of preparation time with a marinating time of at least 2 hours (overnight is best). Grill it for about 30-35 minutes, and you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, white vinegar, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed—that’s your marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken leg quarters to the bowl and make sure they’re completely coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, keep it overnight if you can!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using charcoal, make sure the coals are ashed over and heated evenly before cooking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Then, flip it over and continue grilling for another 20-25 minutes. You want it cooked all the way through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Grill the Green Onions:
If you’re using green onions, toss them on the grill during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Turn them until they get a nice char.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the grilled pollo asado adorned with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, and don’t forget those delicious grilled green onions on the side. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs and Drumsticks?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out faster on the grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Consider marinating them for slightly less time, around 1-2 hours, as breasts can absorb flavors quickly.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Lime or Orange Juice?
No problem! You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice and orange juice with any mild vinegar like apple cider vinegar or even a splash of pineapple juice for sweetness. Just adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences!
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Pollo Asado?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You could also shred the leftover chicken for use in tacos or salads!
Can I Grill the Chicken Indoors?
If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop! Just heat the pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken as directed, but watch closely since indoor cooking might require slight adjustments to the time.
