This Chicken Asado Recipe Pollo Asado is a celebration of bold Latin flavors. With its smoky, citrusy marinade and vibrant spices, pollo asado is a grilled or roasted chicken dish that’s deeply flavorful, juicy, and aromatic. Rooted in Caribbean and Latin American culinary traditions, this dish is known for its rich marinade of citrus juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, and achiote, which gives the chicken its signature red-orange hue and unforgettable taste. Whether you’re cooking on the grill or roasting in the oven, this recipe delivers a juicy, tender chicken with a punch of zesty flavor that’s perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or a festive main course.

For more flavorful grilled chicken ideas, check out Peri Peri Grilled Chicken Skewers or these Chicken Skewers in the Oven.

Credit: Pinterest

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

3 to 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks – These cuts hold the most flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
½ cup orange juice – Adds citrusy sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken.
¼ cup lime juice – Provides brightness and a slightly tart kick.
¼ cup olive oil – Helps carry the flavors of the marinade and keeps the chicken moist.
1 tablespoon white vinegar – Adds a tangy note to balance the citrus.
6 cloves garlic, minced – For bold, aromatic flavor.
1 tablespoon ground achiote (annatto powder) – Gives the dish its signature red hue and earthy flavor.
2 teaspoons dried oregano – Adds a classic Latin herbal note.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – For warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a smoky backdrop.
1 teaspoon salt – To season the meat thoroughly.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Balances the flavor with mild heat.
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional) – For a hint of heat.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 4–24 hours
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
Total Time: Up to 1 day (mostly passive)
Servings: 4–6

Equipment Needed

Large bowl or zip-top bag (for marinating)
Grill or oven
Baking sheet (if roasting)
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Aluminum foil (optional, for resting)

How to Make Chicken Asado Recipe Pollo Asado

1. Make the Marinade

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, achiote powder, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using). Mix well until fully combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.

3. Prepare the Grill or Oven

For Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
For Oven Roasting: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.

4. Cook the Chicken

Grilling Method: Remove chicken from marinade and place it skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred in spots and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.
Oven Method: Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and golden, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

5. Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with warm tortillas, rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 360
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 580mg

Tips and Variations

Use Boneless Chicken:
You can use boneless thighs or breasts for quicker cooking, but bone-in cuts give better flavor and moisture.

Try a Whole Chicken:
This marinade is perfect for spatchcocked or halved whole chickens cooked on the grill or in the oven.

Don’t Skip the Achiote:
Achiote is key to the dish’s color and earthy flavor. If unavailable, a mix of paprika and turmeric can substitute for color, though the flavor will vary.

Marinate Overnight:
The longer the chicken marinates, the better the flavor. Aim for a full 24 hours if possible.

Baste While Grilling:
Reserve a small amount of marinade (before adding raw chicken) to brush on during grilling for added flavor.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze marinated (raw) chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through or in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the skin.

Why This Recipe Works

The balance of citrus, garlic, and spices in this Chicken Asado Recipe Pollo Asado creates a marinade that not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also helps tenderize it naturally. The achiote adds a warm, earthy note and stunning color, while the grill or oven cooking method allows the skin to crisp up perfectly. It’s a bold, juicy, and versatile recipe that showcases the heart of Latin cuisine with every bite.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Asado Recipe Pollo Asado is more than just marinated chicken — it’s a celebration of bold, sunny flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Latin America. Easy to prepare, endlessly flavorful, and ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Pair it with rice, salsa, or warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal that delivers every time.

Credit: Pinterest

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “pollo asado” mean?
“Pollo asado” translates to “grilled chicken” or “roasted chicken” in Spanish.

Can I bake pollo asado instead of grilling it?
Yes, roasting in the oven yields juicy, flavorful results if grilling isn’t an option.

What can I use instead of achiote powder?
You can substitute with equal parts paprika and turmeric for color, though the flavor won’t be identical.

Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but be careful not to overcook them. Boneless, skinless breasts cook faster and can dry out.

For a delicious vegetarian side, try this creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta.

Sofia