Grilled Pollo Asado with Citrus and Herb Marinade Recipe
If you’re craving a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that bursts with fresh citrus and aromatic herbs, you’re going to love this Grilled Pollo Asado with Citrus and Herb Marinade Recipe. It’s a sensational way to enjoy juicy, tender chicken infused with tangy orange, lime, and lemon juices, perfectly balanced by smoky paprika and fragrant cilantro. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a sunny afternoon or roasting in the oven, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a fiesta of flavor that’s sure to wow your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial, each playing a special role in building the bold, vibrant taste and irresistible aroma that define this recipe. From zesty citrus to robust spices, together they bring your grilled pollo asado to life.
- Orange juice: Adds a sweet and tangy depth, tenderizing the chicken beautifully.
- Lime juice: Brings a sharp citrus kick that brightens the marinade.
- Lemon juice: Offers a fresh, zingy contrast to round out the flavors.
- Olive oil: Provides richness and helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Contributes a fresh herbal note that elevates the dish’s brightness.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses a bold, savory punch that complements the citrus perfectly.
- Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that enhances the smoky flavors.
- Dried oregano: Offers a subtle bitterness and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky depth and vibrant color to the marinade.
- Salt: Balances and brings all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: Gives a mild heat and complexity.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Deliver juicy meat and crispy skin when grilled.
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks: Provide tender, flavorful bites that hold the marinade well.
How to Make Grilled Pollo Asado with Citrus and Herb Marinade Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by whisking together all the citrus juices, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. This vibrant marinade combines the zesty brightness of fresh fruits with aromatic herbs and smoky spices, creating a flavor-packed bath for your chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs and drumsticks into a large resealable plastic bag or a baking dish. Pour the marinade over, making sure every piece is generously coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the juiciest, most flavor-loaded pollo asado, marinate overnight—this allows all that magic to really sink into the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Get your grill fired up to medium-high heat. Don’t have a grill? No worries—preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for roasting. Both methods will develop that irresistible char and crispy skin this recipe is famous for.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the pieces on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). You’re looking for charred spots on the skin and juicy, tender meat underneath. If using the oven, roast the chicken on a baking sheet for 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through and crispy on top.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer your perfectly grilled or roasted chicken to a serving platter. For extra freshness and a pop of color, garnish with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges. This final touch amplifies the citrus-herb brightness, making every bite unforgettable.
How to Serve Grilled Pollo Asado with Citrus and Herb Marinade Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and a few lime wedges are classic and essential garnishes, enhancing the zesty flavors and adding a fresh aromatic lift right before serving.
Side Dishes
This grilled pollo asado pairs beautifully with vibrant sides like Mexican street corn, a simple avocado salad, or fluffy cilantro-lime rice. Each side brings a complementary texture and flavor that makes your meal feel complete and festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, shred the grilled chicken and serve it in warm corn tortillas with your favorite toppings for tasty tacos. You can also slice the chicken over a mixed green salad or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty, colorful plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your grilled pollo asado, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay flavorful and moist for up to 3 days, making for easy and delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or extra lime juice can help keep it juicy.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on chicken is preferred for juiciness and crisp texture, boneless chicken thighs or breasts will work well too. Just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to marinate for 2 hours?
Marinating for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to infuse the chicken deeply, but if you’re short on time, 30 minutes can still impart good flavor. Overnight marinating is best for maximum taste.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Definitely! Roasting in a hot oven at 425°F replicates the grilled effect nicely, producing crispy skin and juicy meat if watched carefully.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular paprika is a fine substitute though it lacks the smoky note. You can add a tiny pinch of chipotle powder or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor boost.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes meal prep super simple and lets flavors meld even more before you add the chicken.
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this Grilled Pollo Asado with Citrus and Herb Marinade Recipe—it’s a delicious celebration of fresh, bold flavors made from simple, wholesome ingredients. Once you try it, this recipe will have your family asking for it again and again. So fire up your grill or oven and enjoy a tasty adventure that’s bursting with sunshine in every bite!
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Grilled Pollo Asado with Citrus and Herb Marinade Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Pollo Asado is a vibrant and flavorful Latin American grilled chicken dish, marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, fresh cilantro, garlic, and smoky spices. This recipe delivers juicy, charred chicken with a perfect balance of tangy, herby, and smoky flavors, ideal for a festive dinner or summer cookout.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped fresh cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or baking dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to penetrate, or for best results, marinate overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to properly sear and cook the chicken. Alternatively, if you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until the skin is crispy and charred in spots and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If baking, arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled or roasted chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve alongside your favorite side dishes for a delicious and vibrant meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- If you don’t have a grill, baking the chicken at 425°F works well as an alternative method.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Serve with rice, beans, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Latin American
