This Chicken Asado, or pollo asado, is packed with cozy flavors and makes your kitchen smell amazing. It’s marinated in spices, citrus, and garlic for a burst of taste!
It’s really fun to make and perfect for sharing! I love serving it with rice or tortillas. Who can resist delicious chicken and warm gatherings? Enjoy every tasty bite! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are best for juicy and flavorful results. You can also use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
Olive Oil: A great base for the marinade. If you’re running low, avocado oil works nicely too. It has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
Adobo Seasoning: This gives a fantastic flavor kick. If you can’t find it, you can mix equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar taste.
White Vinegar: Used for a tangy depth. If you prefer something different, apple cider vinegar can add a lovely sweetness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic really elevates the dish. Jarred garlic is a quick substitute, but fresh will always be tastier.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Getting chicken just right on the grill can be tricky. Here are some helpful tips to achieve juicy and flavorful Chicken Asado:
- Marinating Time: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours is key, but overnight helps infuse even more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to the right temperature; that helps to sear the chicken beautifully.
- Skin Side Down First: Grilling skin-side down first helps make it crispy and adds flavor. Don’t press down on the chicken while grilling.
- Don’t Rush Cooking: Flip only once to avoid drying it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
- Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, which keeps it moist when you cut into it.
How to Make Chicken Asado (Pollo Asado)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1 lime
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of active prep time plus at least 2 hours for marinating. If you want even more flavor, marinate overnight! Cooking on the grill will take about 20-25 minutes. So, set aside a few hours to enjoy this delicious Chicken Asado!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, white vinegar, minced garlic, adobo seasoning, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, and lime juice. Stir well to blend everything into a tasty marinade. Place the chicken thighs into the bowl, making sure each piece is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight if you have time!
2. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400-450°F. This is the perfect temperature for grilling chicken to get that nice char and crisp skin.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. Allow any excess marinade to drip off before discarding the leftover marinade. Place the chicken thighs on the grill skin-side down. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and charred. Then, carefully flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to medium. Continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite deliciously juicy! Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and add some lime wedges on the side if you like. Enjoy your Chicken Asado with rice, tortillas, or your favorite dipping sauces for a wonderful meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just keep in mind that they will cook faster than bone-in thighs. You should grill them for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What if I Don’t Have White Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Just keep the same measurement to maintain the marinade’s balance.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Asado?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to give it back some of that crispy texture!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Absolutely! Marinating for longer than 2 hours, even up to 24 hours, can enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the marinade could start to break down the chicken’s texture too much.
