If you’ve ever savored the unforgettable taste of El Pollo Loco chicken recipe, you know it’s no ordinary grilled chicken. The tangy, smoky marinade, combined with tender, juicy meat, is a flavor explosion that leaves you craving more. The good news? You don’t need to hit the drive-thru for a fix. With this pollo loco recipe, you can recreate that restaurant-quality magic in your own kitchen.
Imagine a beautifully charred, golden-brown chicken that’s been marinated in a zesty blend of citrus, spices, and herbs. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a family dinner, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds).
Ready to make your home the hotspot for flavorful chicken? Let’s get started!
Pollo Loco Recipe
Cuisine: Mexican, AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes40
minutes350
kcalThis pollo loco recipe brings the iconic, smoky flavor of El Pollo Loco chicken recipe right to your kitchen. A marinade masterpiece for chicken lovers!
Ingredients
- For the Marinade
½ cup fresh orange juice
¼ cup fresh lime juice
¼ cup olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
- For the chicken
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 chicken drumsticks
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined.
- Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F) or set your oven to broil.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off, and reserve the marinade for basting.
- Grill the chicken, skin-side down, for about 6–8 minutes, until golden and slightly charred.
- Flip and continue cooking, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, for another 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like rice, beans, or tortillas.
Notes
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken becomes.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, broiling in the last 5 minutes for extra char.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a fresh green salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Pollo Loco Recipe:
- Citrus Power: Fresh orange and lime juices are essential for authentic flavor—avoid bottled versions if possible.
- Control the Char: Watch closely while grilling to avoid burning; flip often and baste generously.
- Resting Period: Let the chicken rest after grilling to lock in the juices.
- Marinade Magic: Reserve some marinade (before adding raw chicken) as a dipping sauce or drizzle for extra flavor.
- Enhance the Smokiness: Add a handful of soaked wood chips to your grill for an authentic smoky aroma.
Recipe Variants:
- Spicy Pollo Loco: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.
- Pollo Loco Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve in warm tortillas with pico de gallo and avocado slices.
- Oven-Baked Pollo Loco: For convenience, bake the marinated chicken in a covered dish, then broil for a crispy finish.
- Vegetarian Option: Use the marinade on firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
FAQ:
Yes, but bone-in, skin-on pieces retain more moisture and flavor during grilling. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
Absolutely! Place the chicken in the marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, black beans, or a refreshing citrus salad are all great options.
Looking for more flavorful chicken dishes? Check out our Authentic Mexican Chicken Drumsticks for another smoky, zesty delight!
This pollo loco recipe is a testament to the magic of marination and grilling. The vibrant, citrusy flavors combined with the smoky char create a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re recreating the El Pollo Loco chicken recipe for nostalgic reasons or simply seeking a new favorite meal, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.
From the tantalizing aroma during cooking to the juicy, flavorful bites, this dish will impress everyone at your table. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch it disappear faster than you can say, “¡Delicioso!”
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