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Homemade Pollo Loco

Savor Juicy Homemade Pollo Loco with Citrus Goodness

Experience delicious Homemade Pollo Loco, a flavorful street-style Mexican grilled chicken dish bursting with citrus and spices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or Breasts)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice Use freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Avocado oil is a great substitute
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be used as an alternative
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Standard paprika can be used for a milder taste
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Adjust to preference for spiciness
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Fresh oregano can be used
  • to taste Salt & Pepper
For Garnishing
  • Optional Garnish: Chopped Cilantro
  • Lime Wedges

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing bowl
  • Plastic bag or shallow dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Pollo Loco
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, and minced garlic until well combined. Add smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring until a fragrant marinade forms.
  2. Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of around 375°F (190°C).
  4. Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
  5. After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
  6. Garnish your Homemade Pollo Loco with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve alongside Mexican rice, grilled veggies, or in warm tortillas.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).

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