Chicken Asado, or Pollo Asado, is a tasty dish with juicy chicken marinated in a mix of herbs, spices, and citrus. It’s simple to make and perfect for gatherings!
I love the delightful aroma that fills my kitchen while it cooks. Serve it with rice or warm tortillas for a fun family meal. You’ll keep coming back for more! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs for their juicy flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts will also work, but might require adjusting the cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. You can substitute it with avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed. I find avocado oil has a nice flavor profile as well!
Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh juice brightens the dish. You could use bottled lime juice in a pinch, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. For a different twist, try lemon juice or vinegar.
Spices: Ground cumin, paprika, and chili powder create amazing depth. If you’re out of chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne can mimic a similar kick. Adjust it based on your spice preference!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a lovely finish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a milder substitute, or simply skip it altogether. Some people even love adding diced avocado for creaminess at serving time.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Gets Grill Marks and Stays Juicy?
Getting those beautiful grill marks while keeping your chicken juicy is key! Here are some tips to nail it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps the skin crisp up quickly.
- Pat the chicken dry before grilling. This step helps achieve those desirable grill marks.
- Place the chicken skin-side down without moving it for the first 5-7 minutes. This allows for proper searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist. Happy grilling!
How to Make Chicken Asado (Pollo Asado)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and coat the chicken. Then, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour in the fridge, or overnight if you have time. Cooking on the grill will take around 15 minutes. So, overall, expect about 25 minutes of active cooking time plus the marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well mixed. This flavorful mix will help our chicken be juicy and delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated with the marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour to soak up all the tasty flavors.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and has nice grill marks.
4. Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the chicken over and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Then, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Asado!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts if you prefer! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Bone-in breasts typically need a bit longer on the grill; check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
While marinating overnight is great for flavor, it’s best not to exceed 24 hours as the acidic lime juice can start to break down the chicken and make it mushy. Aim for anywhere between 1 hour to 24 hours for optimal texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop; just be sure not to overcook them, or they may dry out.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Asado?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortillas for a delicious taco night! Add some avocado or fresh salsa on the side for extra flavor.
