Description
This Homemade Pollo Loco recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lime and orange juices, olive oil, garlic, and traditional Mexican spices. Grilled to perfection with a smoky char, this dish captures authentic Mexican-American flavors that are perfect for a flavorful and healthy main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful citrus-spiced marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 to 6 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and ready for cooking. Preparing the grill properly will help achieve the signature smoky char and sear on the chicken.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through with a nice, lightly charred exterior.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice or serve whole, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired. Pair with rice, beans, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken in a hot skillet on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through.
- This dish pairs beautifully with cilantro lime rice and fresh pico de gallo.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
