Pollo Asado

Name: Pollo Asado
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2-3 pounds chicken thighs or legs (boneless/skinless or bone-in/skin-on); 3 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ cup orange juice; 2 tablespoons achiote paste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon white apple vinegar; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves; Vegetable oil (for greasing grill); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

June 7, 2025

Updated:

June 7, 2025

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Pollo Asado is a flavorful Mexican dish that brings vibrant citrus and spice flavors to your table. This grilled chicken is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a festive celebration. Its standout qualities include the mouthwatering marinade and the ease of preparation, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of citrus juices and spices creates a rich and zesty flavor profile that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a tasty meal ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Serving Options: Pollo Asado pairs well with various sides like rice, beans, or tortillas, making it suitable for different cuisines.
Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time to save effort during the week. Just grill when you’re ready to eat!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your guests at parties or gatherings with its vibrant presentation and irresistible taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking pollo asado easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Ziploc bag or baking dish
Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor on your pollo asado while keeping it juicy inside.
Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl makes whisking together the marinade simple and ensures even mixing.
Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring all flavors blend well before marinating the chicken.

Ingredients

Flavorful Mexican pollo asado marinated in citrus and spices, then grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop to perfection.

Main Ingredients

2-3 pounds chicken thighs or legs, (trimmed of excess skin and fat (boneless and skinless, or bone-in and skin-on))
3 cloves garlic, (minced)
¼ cup orange juice ((about 1 medium orange))
2 tablespoons achiote paste ((about 1.5 ounces))
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice ((about ½ lime))
1 tablespoon white apple vinegar
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
Vegetable oil, (for greasing grill)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pollo Asado

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add all ingredients except the chicken in a small bowl. Whisk to combine until smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large Ziploc bag or baking dish. Add the marinade, close the bag tightly, and massage to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours (do not exceed 8 hours).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to high heat for direct cooking. Grease the grill grates with vegetable oil using a paper towel soaked in oil.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Grill skin-side down over direct heat for about 5–7 minutes with the lid closed until crispy. Flip and grill for another 5–7 minutes until cooked through; internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Step 5: Serve Your Pollo Asado

Serve your delicious pollo asado hot with warm corn tortillas or flour tortillas alongside Mexican rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pollo Asado

Pollo asado is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer it in tacos or with a side of rice, there are numerous options to enhance your meal.

Tacos

Corn Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas provide the perfect base for pollo asado, allowing the flavors to shine.
Flour Tortillas: For a softer option, use flour tortillas which can hold more filling and are great for wrapping.

Salad

Mexican Salad: Serve diced pollo asado on a bed of mixed greens with avocado, tomatoes, and cotija cheese for a refreshing meal.
Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

Rice Dishes

Mexican Rice: Pair pollo asado with flavorful Mexican rice cooked with tomatoes and spices for a hearty side.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice brings a zesty flavor that enhances the citrus notes of the chicken.

Sandwiches

Pollo Asado Torta: Use crusty bread to make a delicious torta filled with pollo asado, avocado, and pickled jalapeños.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Layer sliced pollo asado on a bun with lettuce and salsa for a tasty sandwich.

How to Perfect Pollo Asado

Creating the perfect pollo asado is all about mastering the marinade and cooking technique. Follow these tips for best results.

Bold Marinade: Ensure your marinade is well-balanced with citrus and spices for maximum flavor absorption.
Proper Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours but no longer than 8 hours to avoid texture issues.
High Heat Cooking: Grill at high heat to achieve crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy inside.
Resting Period: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking; this helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and spices elevate the overall taste of your pollo asado.
Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Pollo Asado

When serving pollo asado, pairing it with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa provides a zesty kick that complements the smoky flavors of pollo asado.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer protein and texture, making them an ideal side dish.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled alongside the chicken add color and nutrition to your plate.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Sweet corn topped with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime is a flavorful accompaniment.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for an excellent starter or snack alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pollo asado, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Skipping the marinade time: Many people underestimate the importance of marinating. Allow at least 2 hours for the flavors to penetrate the chicken; overnight is even better for maximum taste.
Neglecting to preheat the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to high heat before placing the chicken on it.
Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients matters significantly. Opt for fresh spices and high-quality chicken for the best results.
Not checking internal temperature: Many cooks forget to check if the chicken is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.
Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking can lead to dry pollo asado. Keep an eye on cooking times and remove the chicken from heat once it reaches the desired temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover pollo asado in an airtight container.
It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Pollo Asado

Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Frozen pollo asado can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pollo Asado

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place pollo asado in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, covering it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until heated through.
Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add pollo asado and cover, heating for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pollo asado that may help clarify any doubts.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Pollo Asado?

Yes, while thighs and legs are traditional, you can also use chicken breasts or even whole chickens. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides pair well with Pollo Asado?

Pollo asado goes wonderfully with Mexican rice, beans, or fresh corn tortillas. You can also serve it with a side salad or grilled vegetables.

How spicy is Pollo Asado?

The spiciness depends on your seasoning preference. Achiote paste provides a mild flavor but feel free to add chilies if you enjoy heat.

Can I make Pollo Asado ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight for deeper flavors. Just cook it when you’re ready!

Final Thoughts

This flavorful pollo asado recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with various marinades or sides based on your preferences. Whether you grill, bake, or stovetop cook it, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Give it a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!