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Pollo Asado

Savory Pollo Asado: Your Favorite Chipotle Copycat Made Easy

Pollo Asado captures smoky, zesty goodness in every bite, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Chicken Thighs Substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Optional for air frying.
  • 0.5 cup Water Chicken broth can enhance flavor.
For the Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce Choose according to spice preference.
  • 1 cup Fresh Lime Juice Substitute with lemon juice in a pinch.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Orange Juice Pineapple juice offers an exciting twist.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Cilantro Parsley can be used if cilantro isn't preferred.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Garlic powder is a quick substitute.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be an alternative.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Swap with coriander for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Use Italian seasoning if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Optional; feel free to omit.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works if you prefer less heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Pepper Freshly cracked black pepper is best.

Equipment

  • grill
  • Skillet
  • Air Fryer
  • Blender
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, lime juice, orange juice, cilantro, garlic, and onion. Add cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a container or Ziploc bag, pour in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
  3. For grilling, preheat grill to medium-high (350°F-400°F). Grill chicken thighs for 15-30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. For pan frying, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for around 5 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. For air frying, preheat air fryer to 400°F. Arrange chicken in the basket, air fry for 8 minutes, flip, and continue for another 6-7 minutes until cooked through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 24gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, marinate overnight; avoid marinating for more than 24 hours to prevent mushiness.

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