Name: Homemade Pollo Loco
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 2 limes; Juice of 1 orange; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon oregano (Mexican oregano if available); 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Description

Homemade Pollo Loco is a flavorful, easy-to-make Mexican dish with a citrusy, smoky, and spicy profile. Marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a juicy and tender result that’s perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 2 limes

Juice of 1 orange

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon oregano (Mexican oregano if available)

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Lime wedges for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, coriander, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Add the chicken thighs and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or ideally for 2-4 hours or overnight to enhance the flavors.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade). Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and beautifully charred. Alternatively, cook the chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. This dish goes wonderfully with warm tortillas, rice, beans, or a light salad.

Notes

Marinating for 2-4 hours or overnight enhances the flavor.

Chicken breasts can be used as a leaner option, but cooking time should be adjusted to avoid overcooking.

For a spicier kick, add chipotle powder or fresh jalapeños to the marinade.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and they reheat well in a skillet or microwave.

This dish can be paired with a variety of sides such as rice, beans, tortillas, or a salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling or Pan-searing
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg