Pollo Loco Recipe

This Pollo Loco Recipe brings the bold flavors of Mexican street food to your kitchen. Juicy chicken is marinated in a zesty citrus blend of lime, orange, garlic, and chili, then grilled to golden perfection. Every bite bursts with smoky, tangy, and savory goodness. It’s simple, wholesome, and absolutely irresistible.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Resting Time 5

Total Time 40

Servings: 4

Course: Chicken Recipes, Easy Dinner ideas

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

4 pieces Chicken breasts or thighs Boneless or bone-in
2 tbsp Olive oil Extra virgin
2 tbsp Lime juice Freshly squeezed
1/4 cup Orange juice Freshly squeezed
3 cloves Garlic Minced
1 tsp Chili powder Or paprika for mild flavor
1/2 tsp Ground cumin Adds warmth
1/2 tsp Salt To taste
1/4 tsp Black pepper Optional
1 tbsp Fresh cilantro For garnish
1 tbsp Honey Optional balances acidity

Equipment

1 Mixing bowl For the marinade
1 Grill or skillet For cooking the chicken
1 Whisk To combine marinade ingredients
1 Tongs To flip chicken while grilling
1 Meat thermometer To check doneness

Method

In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and honey.
Add chicken to the bowl and coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Brush lightly with oil.
Grill chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Baste with extra marinade during cooking for more flavor.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

Notes

For smoky flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal or wood chips.
Add pineapple juice to the marinade for a tropical twist.
Slice leftovers for tacos, burrito bowls, or wraps.
Pair with Thai Watermelon Salad or Grilled Peach Yogurt Parfait for a fresh, balanced meal.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.