Description
Pollo Loco is a vibrant and flavorful grilled chicken dish featuring a zesty marinade made from fresh lime and orange juices, aromatic spices, and garlic. Perfectly charred on the grill, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken thighs with a smoky, tangy taste, garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper in a bowl until fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high, preparing it for direct cooking at a good sear temperature.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior has a nice charred crust.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Cayenne pepper can be omitted or adjusted based on heat preference.
- Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
