Chicken Asado Recipe

There’s something magical about family gatherings centered around food, and one dish that never fails to impress is Chicken Asado Recipe. I remember the first time I tasted it at a friend’s family barbecue, the succulent aroma wafting through the air drew me in like a moth to a flame. As I took that first bite, the perfectly grilled chicken infused with vibrant spices enveloped my senses, instantly transporting me to a warm summer evening in a cozy backyard. It quickly became a staple at my own gatherings, bringing everyone together around the dinner table, each bite sparking laughter and joy.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Asado Recipe

The ingredients in this Chicken Asado Recipe are the heart and soul of the dish. Each component plays a crucial role, working in harmony to create a flavorful experience. The star of the show is undoubtedly the chicken, marinated to perfection with citrus and spices that tantalize your taste buds. Let’s take a closer look at these key players:

• 4-5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (remove the skin): This cut is perfect for asado as it remains juicy and flavorful when cooked.
• 1/3 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.
• 1/2 cup orange juice: Provides a sweet tang that balances the spices.
• 1/4 cup lime juice: Brightens the flavor with its acidity.
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the marinade.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with robust flavor.
• 2 ounces achiote paste: Key for the vibrant color and unique flavor of this dish.
• 1 TBS EACH ground coriander, ground cumin, kosher salt: Essential spices that create a warm and savory profile.
• 2 tsp EACH smoked paprika, dried oregano: Adds a smoky depth and herbaceous notes.
• 1 tsp EACH pepper, chipotle chile pepper: For a touch of heat and a complex flavor.

Instructions for Chicken Asado Recipe

Cooking the Chicken Asado Recipe is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these steps for a deliciously grilled masterpiece:

1. Start by whisking all of the marinade ingredients together in a large bowl or a freezer-sized plastic bag. Add the chicken thighs and turn to coat well in the marinade. Make sure every piece is covered, as this will ensure maximum flavor. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 24 hours.
2. Before grilling, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. If you’re using chicken breasts, limit the marination time to a maximum of 12 hours to avoid mushiness.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 425 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean and grease the grates with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the marinated chicken on the grill, skin side down (if skin is on). Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an instant-read thermometer for best results.
5. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more succulent.
6. If you prefer baking, line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the thickness, until reaching an internal temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Serve your Chicken Asado with warm tortillas, Mexican street corn (elotes), a refreshing fruit salad, and Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice. You can also pair it with avocado corn salsa, corn salsa, mango salsa, or pineapple salsa for an extra flavor kick!

Recipe Tips about Chicken Asado Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to make your Chicken Asado Recipe experience even better:

• Storage: Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
• Pairing: Serve your Chicken Asado with classic sides like rice, beans, and a fresh salad to round out the meal.
• Reheating: To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat for even warming, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a microwave at 30-second intervals.
• Pound Chicken Breasts: If you’re using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness before marinating. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.

What to Serve With Chicken Asado Recipe

When it comes to serving the Chicken Asado Recipe, there are plenty of delicious options to complement the flavors. Here’s how to create the perfect meal:

• Warm Tortillas: Serve the chicken with warm corn or flour tortillas for a tasty taco experience.
• Mexican Street Corn: Pair it with elotes, which adds a creamy, sweet, and spicy element to your meal.
• Fresh Salads: A light salad with avocados, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance.
• Rice Dishes: Serve with Mexican rice or fragrant cilantro lime rice for a complete meal that fills you up!
• Festive Occasions: This dish is great for gatherings, birthday parties, or family dinners, bringing everyone together over delicious food.
• Seasonal Flavors: In the summer, enjoy it with fresh fruits like watermelon or mango, and in fall, serve it with roasted vegetables.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Asado Recipe truly captures the essence of flavor and tradition in every bite. This dish is not only delicious but also brings together friends and family for shared meals and memories. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy it can bring to your dining table. Happy cooking!

Chicken Asado Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Asado Recipe is bursting with vibrant flavors and perfectly grilled to juicy perfection. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with spices and citrus, making it a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy the deliciousness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 390

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4-5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs Remove the skin for a healthier option.
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ounces achiote paste
• 1 TBS ground coriander
• 1 TBS ground cumin
• 1 TBS kosher salt
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp chipotle chile pepper

Equipment

• Grater
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by whisking all of the marinade ingredients together in a large bowl or a freezer-sized plastic bag. Add the chicken thighs and turn to coat well in the marinade. Make sure every piece is covered, as this will ensure maximum flavor. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 24 hours.
2. Before grilling, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. If you're using chicken breasts, limit the marination time to a maximum of 12 hours to avoid mushiness.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 425 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean and grease the grates with a bit of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Place the marinated chicken on the grill, skin side down (if skin is on). Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side. You're looking for a nice golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an instant-read thermometer for best results.
5. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more succulent.
6. If you prefer baking, line a baking sheet with foil and spray it with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring they're not touching. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the thickness, until reaching an internal temperature of 175 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Serve your Chicken Asado with warm tortillas, Mexican street corn (elotes), a refreshing fruit salad, and Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice. You can also pair it with avocado corn salsa, corn salsa, mango salsa, or pineapple salsa for an extra flavor kick!

Notes

Store any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat for even warming, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a microwave at 30-second intervals.

If you're using chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness before marinating. This ensures they cook evenly and remain juicy.

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Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.