This Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado is juicy and full of flavor! With zesty citrus and a touch of spice, it’s perfect for a sunny day or any cookout.
I love how easy it is to make; just marinate the chicken and grill it. The smell will have everyone gathering around, drooling before the first bite! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs & Drumsticks: Bone-in chicken is perfect for grilling as it stays juicy. If you’re looking for leaner options, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Olive Oil: This enhances the flavor and helps the marinade stick. You could substitute with canola oil or avocado oil if you prefer a different taste or if olive oil is unavailable.
Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime is key for the zing! Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better in terms of flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add warmth and smokiness. You can mix it up by using taco seasoning or even adding some cayenne for heat if you like it spicy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a strong flavor to the marinade. If you don’t have fresh, use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) but fresh garlic really elevates the dish.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Getting the chicken grilled to perfection is all about the right technique! Start by creating a great marinade and letting the chicken soak up those flavors. Then, let’s focus on the grilling process:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high to ensure a good sear.
- Cook skin-side down first to get it crispy; this also helps to lock in moisture. Aim for 5-7 minutes before turning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees the chicken is safely cooked and juicy!
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute.
And don’t forget, adding the green onions towards the end gives a nice touch of sweetness and crunch!
How to Make Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in chicken drumsticks
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Grilled green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican Grilled Pollo Asado takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour (or overnight if you can wait!). Grilling takes around 20-30 minutes. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including marination time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful marinade that makes the chicken taste amazing!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the bowl, making sure they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, letting it marinate overnight gives the best flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and spread evenly for an even cook.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Let any excess marinade drip off and place the chicken skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and nicely charred.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the chicken over and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Add Optional Green Onions:
If you like, throw some green onions on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking. They just need a few minutes to get lightly charred and add a tasty touch!
7. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled pollo asado garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Add the grilled green onions on the side if you used them. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as boneless pieces typically take about 10-15 minutes less on the grill. Make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Lime Juice?
If you don’t have fresh lime juice, you can substitute it with lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. You can also use vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, but reduce the quantity to about 2 tablespoons to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pollo asado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Preheat the pan and add a little oil before placing the chicken in to achieve those lovely grill marks and crispy skin. Just be sure to ventilate the kitchen to avoid smoke!
