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Pollo Asado

Savory Pollo Asado: Your New Family Dinner Favorite

Pollo Asado is a flavorful, smoky chicken dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners and versatile serving options.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 3 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Swap with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • 1 can Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce Infuses smoky flavor; reduce quantity for milder heat.
  • 4 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice Opt for fresh for best result.
  • 4 tablespoons Fresh Orange Juice Can switch with pineapple juice for tropical flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Olive Oil Optional if pan-frying isn't planned.
  • ½ cup Fresh Cilantro Omit if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
  • 6 cloves Garlic Adjust to your taste.
  • 1 medium Onion Add quartered; shallots can serve as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for authenticity.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Mediterranean oregano can work as a stand-in.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Optional; skip if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Elevates smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Tweak to suit your preference.

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Grill
  • skillet
  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pollo Asado
  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic cloves, quartered onion, cumin, dried oregano, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. In a large airtight container or resealable Ziploc bag, add the boneless skinless chicken thighs. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
  3. Decide on your cooking method: grilling, pan-searing, or air frying. Preheat accordingly (350°F-400°F for grilling, medium-high for skillet, and 400°F for air fryer).
  4. If grilling, place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for 15-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. To pan-sear, add the marinated chicken to the preheated skillet. Sear each side for about 5 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F.
  6. In the air fryer, place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes, flip, and continue for another 6-7 minutes until they reach 165°F.
  7. Once the chicken has rested, slice against the grain and serve in tacos, burrito bowls, or salads with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Marinate for at least 15 minutes for best flavor; consider marinating overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently for maximum moisture.

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