Homemade Pollo Loco Juicy Chicken (Print)
Juicy, citrus-marinated chicken with smoky spices—ideal for quick dinners or backyard cookouts.
# Ingredients:
→ For the Marinade
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
02 -
60 ml fresh lime juice
03 -
60 ml fresh orange juice
04 -
45 ml olive oil
05 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
07 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
08 -
1 teaspoon chili powder
09 -
0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
10 -
Salt, to taste
11 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ For Garnish (optional)
12 -
Chopped fresh cilantro
13 -
Lime wedges
# Steps:
01 -
In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to blend.
02 -
Place chicken thighs or breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor infusion.
03 -
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot.
04 -
Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill each piece for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until fully cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
05 -
Transfer the chicken to a plate and let rest for several minutes before slicing or serving whole. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges as desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For pronounced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
02 -
Chicken may also be cooked in a skillet or baked in a preheated oven at 200°C for 25–30 minutes.
03 -
Serve with Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or use as a filling for tacos and burritos.