Description
Zesty Citrus Pollo Asado is a vibrant and mouth-watering dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Latin cooking. The combination of juicy citrus and rich spices like achiote and chipotle chile pepper marinated into tender chicken thighs creates a meal that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is not just a feast for the palate but also a colorful spectacle for the eyes, making it a standout at any meal.
Ingredients
4–5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed)
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
1 small yellow onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 ounces achiote paste
1 TBS each of ground coriander, ground cumin, kosher salt
2 tsp each of smoked paprika, dried oregano
1 tsp each of pepper, chipotle chile pepper
Instructions
Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl or freezer-size plastic bag, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, onion, garlic, achiote paste, and all the spices. Add the chicken thighs and turn to coat thoroughly. Marinate in the refrigerator for 4 to 24 hours, allowing the chicken to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking.
Grill Preparation: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (425-450°F). Clean and grease the grates with vegetable oil. Place chicken skin side down and grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and an internal temperature of 175 degrees F is reached.
Oven Method: Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray. Place marinated chicken in a single layer and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175 degrees F.
Serve: Accompany the Pollo Asado with warm tortillas, Mexican street corn, pina colada fruit salad, and cilantro lime rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes