Pollo Asado (Chicken Asado) Recipe

Pollo Asado is a flavorful Mexican-style grilled chicken dish made with citrus juice, garlic, spices, and achiote. The chicken is marinated first, which helps it stay juicy and tender while cooking. This recipe works well for grilling or baking and can be used in tacos, rice bowls, wraps, or served as a main dish.

Ingredients

Pollo Asado is made with simple but bold ingredients. Fresh citrus juice adds brightness, garlic and spices add depth, and achiote gives the chicken its signature color and flavor. Olive oil helps keep the chicken moist while cooking, and salt brings all the flavors together.

What Is Pollo Asado?

Pollo Asado means “grilled chicken” in Spanish. It is chicken marinated in a bold citrus-based sauce made with orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and spices. Achiote gives Pollo Asado its bright color and smoky, slightly earthy flavor. The chicken is usually grilled, but it can also be cooked in the oven.

What You’ll Love About This Pollo Asado Recipe

This Pollo Asado recipe is easy to prepare and full of flavor. The marinade does most of the work, so the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. It’s great for meal prep, family dinners, or outdoor grilling. You can also use it in many meals, from tacos to salads.

What Type of Chicken Is Best for Pollo Asado?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best choice for Pollo Asado. They stay moist, cook evenly, and absorb the marinade very well. Chicken breasts can also be used, but they should not be marinated too long because they can dry out faster.

Why Not Use Bone-In Thighs?

Bone-in thighs work, but they take longer to cook and can cook unevenly on the grill. Boneless thighs are easier to manage, cook faster, and give better control over doneness. This makes them perfect for weeknight meals and beginner cooks.

Pollo Asado Recipe (Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken)

Emily Hartwell

This Pollo Asado is juicy, smoky, and full of bold citrus flavor. The chicken is marinated in orange juice, lime, garlic, spices, and achiote, then grilled until perfectly charred. It works great for tacos, rice bowls, burritos, or served on its own.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Marinating Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course main dish

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 People

Calories 390 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 1 small onion roughly chopped
• 5 garlic cloves
• 2½ oz achiote paste
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp Mexican oregano
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp cinnamon optional, for warmth

For the Chicken

• 3½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil for grilling

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  Add all marinade ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be deep orange-red and slightly thick.
  
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  Place chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix until every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
  
• Step 3: Preheat the Grill

  Heat your grill to 400–425°F. Clean the grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken

  Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until nicely charred and fully cooked.

  ✔ Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 175°F for thighs.
  
• Step 5: Rest and Serve

  Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice or chop before serving.
  

Notes

Oven Instructions (Alternative Method)

• Preheat oven to 400°F
• Place marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet
• Bake for 25–35 minutes, flipping once
• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for light char

Tips for Best Flavor

• Marinate overnight for the boldest taste
• Always preheat the grill for good char
• Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness

Serving Ideas

Serve Pollo Asado with:

• Warm tortillas
• Cilantro lime rice
• Black beans
• Grilled corn
• Fresh salsa or guacamole

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave in short intervals.

FAQs