Pollo Asado Recipe (Mexican Grilled Chicken)
This Pollo Asado is juicy, smoky, citrusy, and loaded with classic Mexican flavors. Marinated in citrus juices, achiote, garlic, and spices, then grilled until charred and tender—perfect for tacos, bowls, and weeknight dinners.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Pollo Asado Recipe
- Authentic Mexican flavor using simple ingredients
- Perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying
- Great for tacos, burrito bowls, salads, and meal prep
- Ready with minimal effort but incredible flavor
- Family-friendly and always a crowd-pleaser
🥘 Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in or boneless)
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp achiote paste (or 1 tsp paprika + ½ tsp turmeric as substitute)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Pollo Asado
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, achiote, garlic, tomato paste, and all spices.
- Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add chicken to a large bowl or zip bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken.
- Coat well, cover, and marinate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Pollo Asado
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side (boneless) or 10–12 minutes per side (bone-in).
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the edges are slightly charred.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Air Fryer:
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Oven:
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden and cooked through.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
- Use in tacos with onions, cilantro, and lime
- Add to burrito bowls with beans, corn, salsa, and avocado
- Slice over salads for a fresh, protein-rich meal
- Serve with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes
❄️ Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
- Freeze cooked chicken: Up to 3 months
- Freeze raw marinated chicken: Up to 3 months (cook fresh when thawed)
- Reheat: Microwave or grill for 2–3 minutes
❓ FAQs
1. What is Pollo Asado?
A Mexican grilled chicken marinated in citrus juices, achiote, garlic, and spices.
2. Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying out.
3. What can I use if I don’t have achiote paste?
A mix of paprika + turmeric gives a similar color and mild flavor.
4. Can I cook Pollo Asado without a grill?
Absolutely—air fryer, cast-iron pan, or oven all work great.
5. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Minimum 2 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.
🔗 Similar Recipes :
- Cuban Mojo Chicken
- Peruvian Chicken Recipe
- Mexican Carne Asada
- Pollo Guisado
- BBQ Salmon Bowls

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