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Chicken Asado Recipe

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!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 35 minutes
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.