Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Marinate
4 hrs
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Total Time
4 hrs 20 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
701 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Mexican
Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
Description
The Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe centers on chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of orange and lime juices, olive oil, achiote paste, garlic, onion, and an array of spices including cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, oregano, and chipotle chili pepper. The marinade creates a balance of tanginess, earthiness, and mild heat. After blending these ingredients into a smooth sauce, the chicken is coated and allowed to sit in the refrigerator for several hours to let the flavors penetrate deeply.
Cooking over medium-high heat on the grill imparts a charred edge while rendering the chicken juicy and tender inside. Using an instant-read thermometer ensures the correct internal temperature for safety and optimal texture. Resting the meat post-grilling helps retain juices. This technique highlights smoky, citrus-infused meat with a complex spice profile from the achiote and herbs.
Chipotle Pollo Asado works well served alongside Mexican staples like cilantro-lime rice, tortillas, corn salsa, and black beans. The chicken also lends itself to flexible serving options such as in burritos, salads, or quesadillas. Fresh cilantro and lime wedges accentuate the dish's bright flavors, complementing the smoky marinade.
For best results, remove chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature, which promotes even grilling. Leftover pollo asado can be stored refrigerated for several days and reheated gently in a pan or microwave with a bit of moisture to maintain tenderness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4-5 pounds chicken thigh also use chicken breasts, bone-in
Marinade
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ½ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup lime juice fresh
- ¼ cup cilantro chopped
- ½ cup yellow onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic diced
- 2 ounces achiote paste
- 1 tablespoon cumin ground
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili pepper
- cilantro chopped, for serving
- lime fresh, sliced, for serving
Instructions
- Add all of the marinade ingredients into a blender cup. Pulse and blend until smooth, consistent similar to a sauce.
- Add chicken to a ziplock bag or an air-tight container. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 4 to 24 hours. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. (If using chicken breasts, marinate for up to 12 hours)
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, 425-450°F. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until chicken is cooked through and an internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F for chicken breast and 175 degrees F for chicken thighs. Use an instant-read thermometer. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy hot with your favorite Mexican-inspired sides.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours, for deeper flavor.
- Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and juiciness.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness: 165°F for breasts, 175°F for thighs.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for 3-4 days; reheat with added moisture to maintain tenderness.
- Serve with classic Mexican sides like cilantro-lime rice, tortillas, or use in burritos and salads.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 701 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 701kcal | 35% |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 3% |
| Protein | 43g | 86% |
| Fat | 55g | 85% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10g | 59% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 27g | 135% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 252mg | 84% |
| Sodium | 1366mg | 57% |
| Potassium | 661mg | 14% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 645IU | 13% |
| Vitamin C | 15mg | 17% |
| Calcium | 59mg | 6% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.