Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe is a flavorful dish that brings the taste of Chipotle right to your kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe features tender chicken marinated in a zesty chipotle marinade, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or festive occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just want a delicious meal, this pollo asado recipe will surely impress your family and friends.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Marinade
• How to Make Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Marination Time
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Rest and Serve
• How to Serve Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
• Tacos
• Burrito Bowls
• Salad
• Quesadillas
• Nachos
• Cilantro-Lime Rice
• How to Perfect Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
• Reheating Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the best cut of chicken for this Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe?
• How long should I marinate the chicken?
• Can I use other types of citrus juice?
• What sides pair well with Chipotle Pollo Asado?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep and the marinade doing most of the work, cooking becomes hassle-free.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of citrus and spices creates a vibrant flavor profile that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for tacos, burritos, or served with sides like rice and beans; it adapts to various meals.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook in batches and store for quick weeknight dinners throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: The tender and juicy chicken is a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into our Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe, it’s important to gather your tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Grill or grill pan
• Ziplock bag or airtight container
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Ensures a smooth marinade that evenly coats the chicken for maximum flavor.
• Grill: Provides that perfect charred finish, enhancing the overall taste of the pollo asado.
• Ziplock bag or Airtight Container: Keeps the chicken well-marinated and prevents mess during storage.
• Instant-read Thermometer: Guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time by checking internal temperatures.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4-5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (also use chicken breasts)

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• ½ cup yellow onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, diced
• 2 ounces achiote paste
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chile pepper
• Cilantro, chopped, for serving
• Fresh lime slices for serving

How to Make Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add all of the marinade ingredients into a blender cup. Pulse and blend until smooth and consistent, similar to a sauce.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken to a ziplock bag or an airtight container. Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 3: Marination Time

Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 4 to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. If using chicken breasts, marinate for up to 12 hours.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (425-450°F). Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or until chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for chicken breasts and 175°F for chicken thighs. Use an instant-read thermometer.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy hot with your favorite Mexican-inspired sides.

By following these steps, you’ll create delicious Chipotle Pollo Asado that will become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

Serving Chipotle Pollo Asado is a delightful experience that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This juicy, marinated chicken pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it versatile for any meal.

Tacos

• Use soft or hard taco shells filled with shredded Chipotle Pollo Asado, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.

Burrito Bowls

• Layer rice, beans, and grilled chicken in a bowl. Add guacamole and salsa for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Salad

• Create a refreshing salad by tossing greens with grilled Pollo Asado, corn salsa, avocado slices, and a zesty lime vinaigrette.

Quesadillas

• Stuff tortillas with melted cheese and diced Chipotle Pollo Asado. Grill until crispy for a cheesy treat that pairs well with sour cream.

Nachos

• Top tortilla chips with shredded Chipotle Pollo Asado, melted cheese, jalapeños, and fresh pico de gallo for an irresistible snack or appetizer.

Cilantro-Lime Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy cilantro-lime rice. The citrus notes complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

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How to Perfect Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Chipotle Pollo Asado, keep these tips in mind for maximum flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in thighs provide more moisture and flavor during cooking compared to boneless cuts.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect char.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Experiment with Marinade: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients according to your taste preferences.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy your dish immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chipotle Pollo Asado can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime makes a refreshing base.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add protein and depth of flavor alongside the chicken.
3. Grilled Corn Salsa: Sweet grilled corn mixed with tomatoes and onions provides a bright contrast.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds acidity and freshness that complements the smoky chicken.
5. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip is always a crowd-pleaser and adds richness to your meal.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, cheese, lime, and spices makes an indulgent side.
7. Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa offer a great appetizer option.
8. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender make a healthy side that balances out richer flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can impact your results.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough marination time will result in bland chicken. Aim for at least 4 hours for full flavor.
• Cooking Straight from the Fridge: Cooking cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Not Using a Thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time may lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill at once will lower the temperature and produce steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chipotle Pollo Asado in an airtight container.
• Keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

• Freeze cooked chicken in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat for about 2 minutes with a splash of water in a microwave-safe dish, checking for even heating.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium-high heat with a little oil for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of chicken for this Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe?

Bone-in chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor, but you can also use chicken breasts if preferred.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 4 hours, but up to 24 hours will give even better results.

Can I use other types of citrus juice?

Yes! You can experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit for unique flavors in your marinade.

What sides pair well with Chipotle Pollo Asado?

Serve with cilantro-lime rice, tortillas, corn salsa, or black beans for a complete meal that embodies Mexican cuisine.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! The Chipotle Pollo Asado keeps well and can be reheated easily throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its vibrant flavors make it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Feel free to customize your dish by trying different marinades or serving options. Enjoy creating this flavorful meal that everyone will love!