Mexican Citrus Marinated Grilled Chicken

Pollo Asado is a classic Mexican dish featuring marinated chicken with a zesty mix of citrus juices, earthy achiote, and spices. Whether grilled or oven-roasted, the chicken turns out tender and beautifully colored, with a rich, smoky flavor that makes it ideal for tacos, burrito bowls, or salads.

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit different meal preferences. With a quick marinade and either grill or oven method, Pollo Asado is an easy and satisfying way to bring fresh Mexican flavors to any meal. Serve it with fresh lime wedges, cilantro, and your favorite sides for a truly delightful experience.

Full Recipe:

• 3 pounds chicken thighs, legs, or breasts (bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless), trimmed
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste)
• 1 tablespoon achiote powder (or achiote paste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican oregano preferred)
• 2 teaspoons sea salt (or Kosher salt)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. In a large resealable plastic bag or bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, achiote powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and coat well. Marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 hours (do not marinate longer to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy).
3. For Grilling: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat (375º–425ºF). Oil the grates and create two heat zones (direct and indirect).
   • Grill chicken over direct heat for 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. Then, move to indirect heat and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 15-20 more minutes.
4. For Oven Roasting: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place a wire rack on a baking pan and lay chicken skin side up.
   • Roast for 35-45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: 179 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Pollo Asado, or Mexican Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken, is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the zest of Mexican cuisine to the table. Known for its signature citrus marinade and rich reddish-orange color from achiote, Pollo Asado offers a mix of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors. Traditionally cooked on a grill, this dish also translates well to an oven-roasted preparation, making it an adaptable recipe that suits different cooking preferences and equipment.

A Bit of History and Cultural Relevance

In Spanish, “asado” means roasted or grilled, and “pollo asado” literally translates to “grilled chicken.” Originating in Mexico and influenced by the flavors and techniques from various Latin American cultures, Pollo Asado represents a culinary tradition that values fresh ingredients, balanced spices, and a communal style of cooking. This dish is closely associated with Mexican barbecue gatherings, celebrations, and family dinners. It’s often served with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, and sides like Mexican rice or beans, creating a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Pollo Asado has become popular worldwide due to its unique flavor profile and versatility. It’s found on the menus of Mexican restaurants globally, often served as part of taco platters, burrito bowls, or even salads. For those interested in recreating authentic Mexican dishes, Pollo Asado offers an approachable yet satisfying recipe that celebrates the essence of Mexican cuisine.

The Essence of the Marinade

What sets Pollo Asado apart from other grilled chicken recipes is its marinade. The marinade combines fresh citrus juices, specifically orange and lime, with earthy, aromatic spices. In traditional Mexican cuisine, sour orange juice is often used, but since it’s not readily available outside Mexico, a mix of orange and lime juice serves as an excellent substitute. This combination imparts a tangy, slightly sweet, and fresh flavor to the chicken.

The most unique ingredient in Pollo Asado is achiote, a spice derived from annatto seeds. Achiote is responsible for the dish’s characteristic orange-red color, which not only makes the chicken visually appealing but also introduces a subtle earthy, peppery taste. Achiote can be found in the form of powder or paste, and either works well in the marinade. In addition to achiote, common spices like cumin, coriander, and Mexican oregano add warmth, depth, and a hint of smokiness to the marinade.

Garlic and olive oil round out the marinade, adding aromatic richness and helping the flavors permeate the chicken. The olive oil also plays a practical role, preventing the chicken from drying out during grilling. The combination of citrus, achiote, and these spices creates a marinade that not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy throughout cooking.

Cooking Techniques: Grill or Oven?

Pollo Asado can be prepared using two primary cooking methods: grilling or oven roasting. Each method brings out different qualities in the dish, but both yield delicious results.

• Grilling: This is the traditional way to prepare Pollo Asado, imparting a smoky flavor that complements the marinade. When grilled, the chicken develops a charred exterior, while the interior remains tender and juicy. Grilling is best done over two zones of heat—direct and indirect. The chicken starts over direct heat to achieve a flavorful crust, then finishes cooking over indirect heat to prevent over-charring and to allow the interior to cook through evenly.
• Oven Roasting: For those who prefer cooking indoors, or when grilling isn’t an option, oven roasting is an excellent alternative. Oven roasting Pollo Asado requires placing the marinated chicken on a wire rack inside a baking pan. This technique allows heat to circulate around the chicken, promoting even cooking and helping the skin or exterior to crisp up. Although oven roasting doesn’t add a smoky flavor, it allows the flavors of the marinade to shine, yielding a rich and satisfying dish.

Both methods are straightforward and yield equally juicy and flavorful results. The choice between them depends on personal preference, availability of equipment, and the flavor you wish to achieve.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pollo Asado is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, toppings, and accompaniments. In Mexican cuisine, it’s often served with warm corn or flour tortillas, allowing the chicken to be transformed into tacos. Fresh salsa, guacamole, or pico de gallo make excellent toppings, adding brightness and additional flavor to each bite.

For a more complete meal, Pollo Asado pairs beautifully with side dishes such as Mexican rice, refried beans, and grilled vegetables. A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette is another great option, adding a light, refreshing element to the meal. Many people also enjoy serving Pollo Asado with Mexican street corn or a tangy slaw to complement the smokiness of the grilled chicken.

This dish is also ideal for meal prep. Leftovers can be shredded and used as a filling for burritos, enchiladas, or even salads. Pollo Asado’s robust flavors make it a versatile protein option that can be easily integrated into various recipes, allowing for a range of meal ideas throughout the week.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile

Pollo Asado is not only delicious but also a healthy meal option. Chicken is a lean source of protein, especially when using boneless, skinless cuts like chicken breasts. The marinade itself is low in calories, relying on natural ingredients like citrus juice, garlic, and spices instead of high-calorie sauces. Achiote, a key ingredient in the recipe, is high in antioxidants and has been used traditionally in Mexican medicine for its purported health benefits, such as promoting digestion and reducing inflammation.

The recipe can be easily modified for different dietary needs. It is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free. By using lean cuts of chicken and moderate amounts of olive oil, Pollo Asado fits well into a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. It provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth, while the citrus juices add a dose of vitamin C, supporting immune health.

Tips for Perfect Pollo Asado

Achieving the perfect Pollo Asado comes down to a few key tips:

1. Do not over-marinate: While marinating is essential for flavor, marinating the chicken for more than four hours can break down the meat excessively, resulting in a mushy texture. Stick to a maximum of four hours for optimal flavor and texture.
2. Use a meat thermometer: For the juiciest, safest chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part. This is especially important when cooking bone-in chicken pieces, as they take longer to cook through.
3. Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes after grilling or roasting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
4. Customize the spice level: Adjust the heat by adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade, according to your taste. A spicier marinade can enhance the flavors and add a kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
5. Experiment with garnishes: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado can enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise. The cilantro adds an herbaceous note, while a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors just before serving.

Conclusion: Bringing the Flavors of Mexico to Your Table

Pollo Asado is more than just a grilled chicken recipe—it’s a celebration of vibrant Mexican flavors, with its tangy, earthy, and subtly smoky marinade. The dish’s versatility in cooking methods, from grilling to oven roasting, allows it to be prepared year-round and in various settings. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a barbecue with friends, or as a meal prep option, Pollo Asado is sure to impress with its bold flavors and tender texture.

This dish reflects the essence of Mexican cuisine: simple ingredients combined with traditional techniques to create memorable meals. Pollo Asado’s use of citrus, achiote, and aromatic spices captures the flavors and colors of Mexico, making it a perfect way to introduce authentic Mexican cooking to your kitchen. For a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, Pollo Asado delivers an unforgettable taste experience that’s sure to become a favorite.