Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe : Easy Mexican Grilled Dinner

Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe : Easy Mexican Grilled Dinner offers a flavorful and straightforward way to enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine at home.

This recipe delivers succulent, marinated chicken imbued with citrus and spice, grilled to perfection. The vibrant flavors of orange, lime, and achiote paste meld to create a deeply savory and slightly smoky profile, characteristic of traditional Mexican cuisine.

Imagine the tantalizing aroma as the chicken sizzles on the grill, the skin turning a beautiful golden brown with hints of char. Each bite offers a juicy tenderness contrasted by the crisp edges, a symphony of textures that enhance the overall sensory experience.

Inspired by the famous Mexican chain, this grilled chicken recipe captures the essence of family gatherings and festive celebrations. It represents the communal joy of sharing good food and creating lasting memories, echoing the heart of Mexican culinary tradition.

What sets this recipe apart is its accessibility; despite its complex flavor profile, the preparation is surprisingly simple. It’s designed for home cooks of all skill levels, providing a streamlined approach to achieving restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Various regional interpretations and serving suggestions abound, from pairing it with classic sides like rice and beans to incorporating it into tacos or salads. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a staple for any occasion.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Follow our simple, step-by-step instructions to unlock the secrets of this delectable grilled chicken. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and prepare to savor the taste of Mexico.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: Gluten-Free, Main Dishes, Summer Recipes, Cooking Techniques
• Courses: Dinner, Main Dishes
• Cuisines: Mexican
• Keywords: Grilled Chicken, Mexican Cuisine, Citrus Marinade, Achiote, BBQ, Easy Dinner

Estimated Cost: $18.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Ingredients

• 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, and/or breasts)
• 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, achiote paste, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Ensure the achiote paste is fully dissolved for a smooth marinade.
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or a non-reactive dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken.
• Step 3: Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400F or 190-200C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken pieces on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, or until the skin is nicely browned and slightly charred.
• Step 5: Cook Through: Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) in the thickest part of the chicken. Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Step 6: Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped jalapeo to the marinade. If achiote paste is unavailable, substitute with paprika and a pinch of annatto powder for a similar color and flavor profile. For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 1/6 of the recipe):

Essential Cooking Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Large mixing bowl
• Resealable plastic bag or non-reactive dish
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Juicer (for citrus)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Variations

Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe : Easy Mexican Grilled Dinner can be tailored to suit various preferences and dietary needs:

• Ingredient Swaps: For a different flavor profile, substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped) can add smokiness and heat. In place of orange juice, pineapple juice contributes a tropical sweetness.
• Regional Twists: Incorporating ingredients like guajillo peppers (rehydrated and blended into the marinade) lends a deeper, earthier flavor characteristic of certain regional Mexican cuisines. A splash of tequila or mezcal in the marinade provides an authentic touch.
• Dietary Adaptations: To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari in the marinade. For a lower-fat version, remove the skin from the chicken before marinating and grilling. It can be made keto-friendly by using a sugar substitute in the marinade, and ensuring sides are low-carb options.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled chicken is versatile and can be served in numerous ways. It is excellent as a main course with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, and a fresh salsa. Shredded, it can be used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Alternatively, serve it sliced over a vibrant salad or alongside grilled vegetables for a lighter meal. Suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues.

Storage Tips

To preserve freshness, allow the grilled chicken to cool completely before storing. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Ensure it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat, use the microwave, oven, or grill, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C).

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of bone-in pieces? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used. Reduce grilling time accordingly, as they cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165F (74C).
• Question 2: How long should I marinate the chicken? Ideally, marinating overnight yields the best flavor. However, a minimum of 4 hours is recommended for the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
• Question 3: Can I bake the chicken if I don’t have a grill? Absolutely. Bake in a preheated oven at 375F (190C) for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C).
• Question 4: What if I don’t have achiote paste? Substitute with a mixture of paprika, cumin, and a pinch of annatto powder for a similar color and flavor profile.
• Question 5: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill? Marinating helps keep the chicken moist. Also, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature. Resting the chicken after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender product.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe : Easy Mexican Grilled Dinner brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your backyard with ease. The combination of citrus, spices, and smoky char creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress.

You’ll love how versatile this recipe is! Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking, swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, or experiment with different serving styles whether it’s tacos, salads, or a simple plate with rice and beans.

So, fire up your grill and give this recipe a try. We’re confident you’ll enjoy the process and the delicious results. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us, and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Happy cooking, and we can’t wait to see how yours turns out!