Pollo Loco Recipe Chicken: Tasty Grilled Copycat

Craving that delicious Pollo Loco chicken but don’t want to head out to a restaurant? You’re in the right place! I’ll show you how to make this flavorful and juicy grilled chicken at home.

The tangy citrus and garlic marinade makes this dish pop with flavor. Plus, it’s not difficult to prepare at all.

Starting with fresh ingredients is key. For this recipe, you’ll need chicken thighs, garlic, oregano, and a mix of citrus juices.

It’s incredible how quickly you can recreate the mouthwatering flavor of Pollo Loco chicken in your own kitchen. Plus, knowing exactly what’s in it ensures a delicious and healthy meal for everyone.

Stick around to discover the simple steps to marinate, grill, and serve this tasty chicken. You won’t believe how easy and satisfying it is to make your own Pollo Loco dish right at home.

Key Takeaways

• This recipe allows you to make Pollo Loco chicken at home.
• You’ll need fresh ingredients like chicken thighs, garlic, and citrus juices.
• The preparation involves a simple marinade and grilling process.

Ingredients List

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make the delicious Pollo Loco chicken. I love using these simple ingredients to achieve that authentic flavor:

• Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Marinade:
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup canola oil or olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • Optional: A few drops of yellow food coloring for vibrant color

To add a zesty twist, try combining the juices of lemon and orange with the marinade!

Side Dishes

Creating sides to go with your Pollo Loco chicken adds to the meal’s enjoyment:

• Rice:
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
• Black Beans:
  • 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• Pineapple salsa (optional):
  • 1 cup chopped pineapple
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Marinating the chicken is key! Make sure to let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least four hours or, even better, overnight. This ensures the flavors really soak in.

With these ingredients, you’re set to make a fantastic Pollo Loco chicken that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!

Preparation and Cooking Process

To make El Pollo Loco chicken, I start by marinating the chicken to ensure it’s tender and flavorful. I suggest marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours using a mix of minced garlic, canola oil, dried oregano, ground pepper, lime juice, and kosher salt.

I place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag and cover it completely with the marinade, making sure it’s well-coated. Then, I refrigerate it.

When it’s time to cook, I preheat the oven to 425°F and use a cast iron skillet or grill pan. This helps achieve a smoky and tangy flavor.

I place the marinated chicken skin side up in the skillet. I cook it in the oven for about 25 minutes. Then, I move the skillet to the stovetop set to medium-high heat.

To keep the chicken moist, I spray foil with canola oil spray and place it lightly over the chicken.

Using a meat thermometer, I monitor the internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe 165°F. This helps avoid overcooking, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

For an extra burst of flavor, I sometimes brush the chicken with a bit of vegetable oil or citrus juices in the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving the chicken with salsa or a tangy dipping sauce adds even more deliciousness! This recipe captures that authentic El Pollo Loco grilled chicken taste we all love.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve gathered some common questions about making El Pollo Loco chicken at home. This should help you prepare this delicious dish easily.

How can I make an easy version of El Pollo Loco chicken at home?

To make an easy version, marinate chicken in a mix of citrus juice, oregano, garlic, and salt. Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours. Grill the chicken until it’s cooked through. For a step-by-step guide, check out this El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe.

What are the nutritional values of El Pollo Loco chicken?

El Pollo Loco chicken is relatively low in calories and fat while being high in protein. A typical serving has around 190 calories, 8 grams of fat, and 29 grams of protein. The exact values depend on the specific recipe and portion size.

How can I prepare Pollo Loco style chicken breasts?

Marinate chicken breasts in citrus juice, garlic, canola oil, oregano, and salt for at least two hours. Grill the chicken on medium-high heat until fully cooked. For more details, take a look at this Pollo Loco Grilled Lime Chicken.

Which ingredients are needed to create an authentic Pollo Loco chicken recipe?

For an authentic taste, you’ll need chicken (breasts or thighs), citrus juice (like lime or orange), garlic, dried oregano, ground pepper, canola oil, and kosher salt. Combine these in a marinade and let the chicken soak up the flavors for several hours. Read more about the El Pollo Loco Grilled Chicken Copycat Recipe.

What kind of oil is used in preparing El Pollo Loco chicken?

Canola oil is commonly used in El Pollo Loco chicken recipes. It’s a neutral oil that blends well with the citrus and spices in the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken and enhance its flavor.

Can you suggest a good Pollo Loco chicken and rice recipe?

Start by marinating the chicken with the usual spices and citrus juice. Then, grill the chicken.

Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of rice cooked with chicken broth, garlic, and a bit of lime juice. This creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. For a similar recipe, check out these El Pollo Loco Copycat Chicken instructions.