Smoky Chipotle Pollo Asado

Unlock the secrets to crafting an exceptionally tender, juicy, and flavor-packed chicken dish with this definitive Pollo Asado recipe. Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken and prepare your taste buds for an explosion of vibrant flavors that will transport you straight to your favorite Mexican grill. If you’re a fan of the iconic Chipotle Pollo Asado, you’re in for a treat – this copycat version captures all the smoky, zesty goodness you crave, making it perfect for your homemade burrito bowls, tacos, or salads.

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What is Pollo Asado?

In Spanish, “pollo” translates to chicken, and “asado” generally refers to something grilled or roasted. This vibrant and flavorful chicken dish is a staple in various Latin American cuisines, including Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban. Often characterized by its striking “red chicken” appearance, Pollo Asado gets its distinctive hue and deep flavor from a rich, aromatic marinade made with a blend of spices and chili peppers. While each region boasts its own unique twist on Pollo Asado, this particular recipe draws inspiration from the beloved Mexican style, closely mirroring the irresistible taste profile of Chipotle’s popular menu item.

The hallmark of a great Pollo Asado is its incredible tenderness and juicy texture, qualities primarily achieved through an effective marinade. For decades, Chipotle’s chicken offerings remained unchanged, making the introduction of their Pollo Asado a significant and celebrated event. Their rendition is famed for its complex blend of smoky chilies, earthy cumin, and pungent garlic – a flavor profile we’ve meticulously recreated here to bring that authentic experience right into your kitchen.

The Ultimate Pollo Asado Marinade

The secret to truly exceptional Pollo Asado lies within its marinade – a harmonious blend of fresh citrus juices and a thoughtfully selected array of spices. This powerful concoction not only infuses the chicken with layers of flavor but also works to tenderize the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and succulent. While some marinades require extensive soaking times, the beauty of using chicken thighs in this recipe is their inherent juiciness, which means you don’t necessarily need to marinate them overnight. However, for an even deeper flavor penetration and tenderness, an extended marinating period is always a welcome option if time allows.

Marinating poultry in an acidic liquid, such as citrus juice, helps to break down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender product. The enzymes in certain ingredients also contribute to this process. This preparation step guarantees that your chicken will be incredibly moist, no matter your cooking method.

For this essential marinade, you will need:

• Fresh Lime Juice: Provides a bright, zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken and enhances other flavors.
• Fresh Orange Juice: Adds a subtle sweetness and another layer of citrus complexity, contributing to the marinade’s tenderizing properties.
• Fresh Garlic: A foundational aromatic that delivers pungent, savory notes crucial to Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Fresh Cilantro: Offers a distinct, refreshing, and herbaceous aroma that beautifully complements the chili and citrus.
• Chipotles in Adobo Sauce: These are the stars, providing a smoky, moderately spicy heat and a rich, earthy depth that defines Pollo Asado. The adobo sauce itself is packed with flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Reinforces the smoky notes from the chipotles and adds a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken.
• Cumin: An essential spice in Mexican cuisine, offering warm, earthy undertones that tie all the flavors together.
• Salt: Crucial for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors of the chicken.

An optional addition that can further elevate the flavor is a pinch of chili powder. While the chipotles in adobo sauce already deliver immense flavor and a good level of heat, chili powder can add another dimension of smoky, earthy spice. Feel free to incorporate it if you desire an extra kick or a more pronounced chili flavor in your homemade Pollo Asado.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Pollo Asado

For this Pollo Asado recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my top recommendation. Chicken thighs are inherently richer in fat content compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast, making them incredibly juicy and flavorful. This natural juiciness is a huge advantage, especially when cooking with high heat methods such as grilling or searing, as it helps prevent the chicken from drying out.

While bone-in chicken thighs tend to be even juicier due to the bone marrow, they generally require a longer cooking time. For convenience and versatility, particularly if you plan to shred or dice the chicken for bowls, tacos, or burritos, boneless thighs are a superior choice. Their uniform thickness also promotes more even cooking.

However, don’t feel limited! This versatile marinade works wonderfully with other chicken cuts. If you prefer chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness (about ½-inch) to ensure they cook quickly and remain tender. You might also want to increase the marinating time for chicken breasts to compensate for their leaner nature. Chicken drumsticks or even a whole spatchcocked chicken can also be used, though cooking times and methods will need to be adjusted accordingly. The key is to select a cut that fits your preference and how you intend to serve your delicious Pollo Asado.

How Spicy Is Pollo Asado?

The distinctive heat in our Pollo Asado comes from chipotle peppers, which are smoke-dried jalapeños preserved in a rich adobo sauce. The name “chipotle” itself originates from the Nahuatl word “chilpoctli,” meaning “smoked chili.” These peppers boast a unique flavor profile that is smoky, slightly sweet, and possesses a moderate level of heat. For those with a low tolerance for spice, you might find the dish to be on the spicier side.

However, for individuals who regularly enjoy spicy food, this Pollo Asado recipe typically falls into the mild-to-medium heat category. The smokiness often balances the capsaicin, making it a very palatable heat. If you’re someone who likes to kick things up a notch, feel free to enhance the spice level by adding a pinch or two of red cayenne pepper directly to the marinade. Alternatively, for a milder version, you can reduce the number of chipotles used or remove some of the seeds before blending.

Easy Steps to Make Homemade Pollo Asado

Creating this flavorful Pollo Asado at home is surprisingly simple, thanks to a straightforward preparation process. The main steps involve blending the marinade and then coating your chosen chicken cuts. Here’s a quick overview to get you started on your culinary journey:

1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine all the marinade ingredients in your chosen appliance – a high-speed blender, a food processor, or a large bowl with an immersion blender. The goal is to create a smooth, thick sauce.
2. Achieve Optimal Consistency: Blend the ingredients until they form a rich, thick, and uniform sauce. This consistency is key for ensuring the marinade adheres well to the chicken, infusing it with maximum flavor.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Generously coat the chicken thighs (or your preferred chicken cut) with the freshly prepared marinade. Ensure every piece is thoroughly covered for even flavor distribution.
4. Choose Your Cooking Method: Once marinated, your chicken is ready for cooking. You have several delicious options: grill it for classic smoky flavor, pan-sear it for a beautiful crust, bake it for hands-off convenience, or air fry it for a crispy finish.

Cooking Your Pollo Asado: Multiple Methods

Traditionally, Pollo Asado is celebrated for its smoky, char-kissed flavor achieved on a grill. However, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, or simply prefer other cooking methods, there are several excellent alternatives that will still yield incredibly delicious results. Each method brings its own unique texture and convenience to the dish.

Here’s how to cook your marinated Pollo Asado to perfection:

• Pan-Searing (Stovetop): For a fantastic crust and juicy interior, a cast iron skillet or a cast iron grill pan on your stove is an excellent choice.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once hot, add the marinated chicken, along with any excess marinade. Searing the chicken directly in the sauce helps keep it moist and prevents drying out.
  • Cook boneless chicken thighs for 5 minutes per side, then flip and continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • For bone-in thighs, sear each side for 4 minutes to achieve a crispy skin, then transfer the oven-safe skillet to a preheated 425-degree Fahrenheit oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit is reached.
• Grilling: Embrace the classic method for that authentic smoky flavor.
  • Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  • Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 15-30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook time will vary based on chicken thickness and grill temperature.
• Baking: A hands-off method that’s great for meal prep or when you’re cooking other components of your meal.
  • Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, ideally lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Bake boneless chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Bone-in chicken thighs will require an additional 10-20 minutes of baking time, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Air Frying: For a deliciously crispy exterior and quick cooking time, the air fryer is a fantastic option.
  • Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.
  • Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it (cook in batches if necessary).
  • For boneless thighs, air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes.
  • For bone-in thighs, air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes.
  • In both cases, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ensuring Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken is not just about taste; it’s also about food safety. The most reliable way to ensure your Pollo Asado is safely cooked and wonderfully juicy is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken, regardless of the cut or cooking method, must reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

To accurately check the temperature, insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the largest piece of chicken, making sure not to touch any bones. If the chicken hasn’t reached 165 degrees F, continue cooking for a few more minutes and re-test. Beyond temperature, visual cues can also indicate doneness: the chicken should be opaque throughout, and its juices should run clear when pierced. Avoid overcooking, as this can quickly lead to dry chicken, especially with leaner cuts like breasts.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Pollo Asado

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of your delicious Pollo Asado. Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored this way, leftovers can be safely kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes Pollo Asado an excellent option for meal prepping throughout the week.

When it comes to reheating, the goal is to warm the chicken thoroughly without drying it out. The best methods for reheating are:

• Stovetop: Place the chicken in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to create some steam and prevent it from drying. Cover the pan and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Air Fryer: For a quick and crispy reheat, place the chicken in your air fryer basket and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 4-6 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can sometimes make chicken tough or rubbery. If using, heat in short intervals (30-60 seconds) until warm, stirring or flipping in between. This method is best for small portions.

Freezer-Friendly Tips for Pollo Asado

Pollo Asado is incredibly freezer-friendly, making it an ideal dish for future meal planning. You can freeze either the uncooked marinated chicken or cooked leftovers. This flexibility allows you to prepare components ahead of time or save extra portions for busy days.

• Freezing Raw Marinated Chicken: If you want to prepare the marinade in advance, place the raw marinated chicken (without cooking) in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Ensure as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with your chosen cooking method.
• Freezing Cooked Leftovers: Allow cooked Pollo Asado to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, again removing as much air as possible. Cooked chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the reheating instructions above. Adding a little extra sauce or broth during reheating can help maintain moisture.

What to Serve with Your Delicious Pollo Asado

The versatility of Pollo Asado makes it a fantastic centerpiece for a variety of meals. Its rich, smoky, and zesty flavors pair beautifully with classic Mexican and Latin American side dishes, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying spread. Here are some highly recommended accompaniments:

• Rice: A staple pairing. Try Cilantro Lime Rice for a fresh, zesty complement that mimics the Chipotle experience. Plain white or brown rice also works well to soak up the flavorful chicken juices.
• Beans: Black beans or pinto beans are excellent. Consider making Instant Pot Black Beans for a quick and easy side.
• Salsas: A fresh salsa adds brightness and texture. Smoked Salsa would enhance the smoky notes of the chicken. Pico de gallo or a simple chunky tomato salsa are also great options.
• Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up any extra marinade or salsa. Make your own Air Fryer Tortilla Chips for a healthier, crispy treat.
• Queso Dip: For a creamy, cheesy indulgence, serve with Homemade Queso Cheese.
• Corn: Fresh or roasted corn provides a sweet balance. Oven Baked Roasted Corn on the Cob is a simple yet flavorful addition.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado slices or a dollop of fresh guacamole add a cool, rich contrast.
• Warm Tortillas: Serve with corn or flour tortillas for building your own tacos or mini burritos.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing element.
• Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: A cool and tangy finish.

Whether you’re crafting a hearty burrito bowl, filling soft tacos, or simply enjoying the chicken alongside rice and beans, Pollo Asado offers incredible versatility for your meal planning.

More Copycat Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed recreating the magic of Chipotle’s Pollo Asado, you’ll love exploring more of our copycat recipes designed to bring your restaurant favorites home. From hearty pastas to iconic fast-food sandwiches and comforting soups, we’ve got a growing collection that allows you to enjoy beloved dishes with the satisfaction of homemade quality and often, a healthier twist.

• Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
• Taco Bell Creamy Jalapeno Sauce
• Taco Bell Breakfast Crunchwrap
• Chick-Fil-A Chicken Sandwich
• Red Lobster CopyCat Shrimp Scampi
• Instant Pot Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup
• Keto Low Carb Zuppa Toscana Soup
• Panera Autumn Squash Soup
• Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Big Mac Casserole

Don’t forget to grab the recipe for the perfect accompaniment:

Get the recipe for the rice here: Chipotle Rice Recipe.

Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe Card

Brandi Crawford

This Pollo Asado Recipe includes all the spices, seasoning, and marinade you will need to make tender, juicy chicken with tons of flavor. Love the new Chipotle chicken? You’re going to love this copycat version.

5 from 26 votes

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Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: Mexican

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 306 kcal

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Equipment Needed

• Cast Iron Skillet
• Cast Iron Grill Pan
• Meat Thermometer
• Grill
• Blender or Food Processor

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (See notes for other chicken types.)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2-3 tablespoons water (Optional, for pan-searing)

Marinade

• 7 oz Chipotles in Adobo Sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (from one orange)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro
• 3 garlic cloves
• ¼ cup chopped onions
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinade Preparation

1. Add all marinade ingredients (Chipotles in Adobo Sauce, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, fresh cilantro, garlic cloves, chopped onions, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper) to a blender, food processor, or a large bowl if using a handheld immersion blender.

2. Blend until the ingredients form a smooth, thick sauce. If the marinade is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches a desired, pourable consistency.

3. Thoroughly coat the boneless skinless chicken thighs in the prepared marinade. While optional, marinating overnight can deepen the flavor; however, it is not required for tender results.

Pan-Seared Chicken (Stovetop)

1. Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil.

2. Once hot, add the marinated chicken along with all of the sauce/marinade. Searing the chicken in its sauce helps maintain moisture and prevents it from drying out.

   For boneless chicken thighs, cook for 5 minutes per side, then flip and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

   For bone-in thighs, use an oven-safe skillet. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Sear the chicken on each side for 4 minutes to achieve a crispy skin. Once crisp, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

4. After the chicken is cooked, drizzle any leftover sauce from the pan over the chicken to enhance flavor and keep it juicy. If the sauce begins to dry out during searing, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the pan.

Air Fryer Chicken

1. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.

2. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. For bone-in thighs: Air fry at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

   For boneless thighs: Air fry at 400 degrees F for 8 minutes, then flip the chicken. Cook for an additional 6-7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Grilled Chicken

1. Coat the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, between 350-400 degrees F.

3. Grill the chicken for 15-30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of the chicken.

Chef’s Notes and Tips

• Chicken thighs are naturally more juicy than chicken breasts due to their higher fat content, making them ideal for this recipe. Bone-in thighs are even juicier but require a slightly longer cooking time. Boneless thighs are recommended for dishes like rice bowls where easy-to-eat pieces are preferred.
• This marinade is versatile; feel free to use any cut of chicken you prefer, including breasts or drumsticks. For chicken breasts, consider marinating longer or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure maximum tenderness and quick, even cooking.
• This recipe yields a generous amount of flavorful marinade, enough to drizzle over the cooked chicken. I particularly love making this dish on the stovetop for this reason. If you choose to air fry or grill, you can reserve half of the uncooked marinade (ensure it hasn’t touched raw chicken) to heat separately and drizzle over the finished chicken for added juiciness and flavor.
• Adjust the spice levels and ingredients in the marinade to suit your personal taste. For extra heat, incorporate a pinch of red cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, reduce the quantity of chipotles in adobo sauce.
• When pan-searing, a cast iron skillet or a good quality stainless steel pan is highly recommended. These materials provide superior heat retention and distribution, which are essential for achieving that desirable crispy crust on your chicken. Non-stick pans may not give you the same level of browning.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 6 oz | Calories: 306 kcal | Carbohydrates: 12 g | Protein: 33 g | Fat: 13 g

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Nutrition Data Disclaimer

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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