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Pollo Asado (Chicken Asado) Recipe

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
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
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.
    Prepare the Marinade
  • 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.
    Marinade the Chicken
  • 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.
    Grill the chicken
  • Step 5: Rest and Serve
    Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice or chop before serving.
    Pollo Asado (Chicken Asado) Recipe

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.