Chicken Asado Recipe

Name: Chicken Asado Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Latin
Ingredients: 4-5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (remove the skin); 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup lime juice; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 2 ounces achiote paste; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon chipotle chile pepper

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Pollo Asado, or Chicken Asado, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that infuses the chicken with a zesty marinade full of citrus, spices, and achiote paste. This delicious recipe, whether grilled or roasted, offers tender, juicy chicken with a smoky, earthy taste and a beautiful charred crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts, this recipe is versatile and can be served in various ways, such as tacos, burritos, or bowls.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Asado Recipe

This Chicken Asado recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The marinade does all the work to deliver a juicy, flavorful chicken that is both smoky and spicy, with just the right amount of tang. Whether you choose to grill or bake the chicken, this recipe is designed to be easy, quick, and perfect for any occasion.

The best part? It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes like rice, beans, and a fresh salad. Additionally, you can use different cuts of chicken such as thighs, breasts, or drumsticks, and it works just as well for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients for Chicken Asado

The marinade for this Chicken Asado is where all the magic happens. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the complex, flavorful profile of this dish.

• Achiote paste: Imparts a deep, earthy flavor and vibrant red-orange color.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps to tenderize the chicken.
• Lime juice: Provides a tangy freshness that complements the smoky spices.
• Orange juice: Adds sweetness and balances the savory notes.
• Onion: Enhances the marinade with its aromatic punch.
• Garlic: Brings bold, pungent flavor to the chicken.
• Ground cumin: Adds warmth and nuttiness to the marinade.
• Dried oregano: Lends a subtle herbal note, balancing the other spices.
• Smoked paprika: Gives the chicken a mild smokiness without being spicy.
• Chipotle chile pepper: Adds heat and a smoky flavor.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning.

Alternative Ingredients

If you can’t find some of the ingredients, there are a few easy substitutions:

Achiote paste substitute: If you can’t find achiote paste, you can create a similar flavor profile using a mix of paprika, vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cloves.
Cilantro: For an extra burst of freshness, you can add chopped cilantro to the marinade or as a garnish after cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Chicken Asado

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, whisk together the marinade ingredients (achiote paste, olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, chipotle pepper, salt, and pepper).
Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated.
Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally 24 hours, for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Chicken for Cooking

Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

Grilling or Roasting the Chicken

Grilling:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (425-450°F).
Clean and grease the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side (for bone-in chicken thighs), until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Roasting (for oven cooking):

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.
Place the chicken on the baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until it reaches 175°F internally.
Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before slicing.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken Asado

Marinate for longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 12-24 hours.
Room temperature chicken: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling or roasting to ensure even cooking and better moisture retention.
Avoid overcooking: Chicken breasts should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, while dark meat like thighs and legs benefits from reaching 175°F for the best texture.

Don’t rinse the marinade off: Let the excess marinade drip off but avoid rinsing it to preserve the flavors.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Chicken Asado pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Sides: Serve with cilantro lime rice, Mexican street corn (elotes), or a fresh avocado corn salsa.

Sauces: Top with a tangy mango salsa, pineapple salsa, or creamy avocado crema for an extra burst of flavor.
Tacos and Bowls: Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in tacos, burrito bowls, or quesadillas for a quick, delicious meal.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

You can prep the marinated chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for later use. Freezing the chicken with the marinade makes for an easy meal whenever you need it—just thaw and cook!

Why You Should Try This Chicken Asado Recipe

This Chicken Asado recipe is the perfect combination of juicy, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you grill or roast it, the marinade ensures every bite is bursting with Latin-inspired flavors. With easy prep, a variety of serving options, and the ability to double or freeze, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home.

Give this Chicken Asado recipe a try for your next family dinner or summer cookout, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing, delicious meal that’s guaranteed to impress!

Conclusion

This Chicken Asado recipe is a delicious, easy, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you grill or roast the chicken, the marinade does all the work, infusing the chicken with bold citrus, smoky, and spicy flavors. With minimal prep time and countless serving options, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Paired with fresh sides like cilantro lime rice and a vibrant salsa, it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether served as tacos, bowls, or a stand-alone dish, Chicken Asado delivers tender, flavorful chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

FAQ Section

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, though 12-24 hours is ideal. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will become. Be sure not to marinate chicken breasts for more than 12 hours, as they can become mushy.

Can I cook Chicken Asado in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes! You can easily cook Chicken Asado in the oven. Simply roast at 400°F for 25-35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until it reaches an internal temperature of 175°F for dark meat and 165°F for light meat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness and juiciness, you can use chicken breasts. Just make sure to pound the breasts to an even thickness before marinating, and cook them to an internal temperature of 165°F.

How can I store and reheat leftover Chicken Asado?

Store cooked Chicken Asado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat, the microwave, or the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. You can also freeze the marinated chicken or cooked leftovers for up to 3 months.

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