Pollo Loco, or “Crazy Chicken,” is a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish inspired by Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus, spices, and herbs, this dish is packed with bold flavors and a smoky charred finish. It’s perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or backyard grilling. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or fresh salsa for a complete meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy, tender, and packed with citrusy, smoky flavors
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for grilling, baking, or stovetop cooking
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Versatile—pairs well with rice, beans, tortillas, and fresh veggies
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Orange juice
- Lime juice
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Ground cumin
- Paprika
- Chili powder
- Oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra depth)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and soy sauce.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Alternative cooking methods:
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Stovetop: Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1-12 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marination)
Variations
- Spicy Pollo Loco: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Coconut-Lime Pollo Loco: Swap orange juice for coconut milk and add extra lime juice.
- Smoky Chipotle Pollo Loco: Blend in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a deeper smoky flavor.
- Honey-Lime Pollo Loco: Add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Use the same marinade for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months in a sealed bag.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Pollo Loco?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the juiciest, but chicken breasts also work well.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can bake it in the oven or cook it in a skillet on the stovetop.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is best, but bottled juice works in a pinch.
What should I serve with Pollo Loco?
Rice, beans, grilled vegetables, tortillas, or a fresh salad pair well.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes! It works great with pork, shrimp, or even tofu.
Is Pollo Loco spicy?
No, but you can make it spicier by adding chili powder or hot sauce.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I get that smoky grilled flavor without a grill?
Use a cast-iron skillet for a good sear or add smoked paprika to the marinade.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Homemade Pollo Loco is a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make dish that brings bold, citrusy flavors to your table. Whether you grill, bake, or pan-fry it, this recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal every time. Try it with your favorite sides and enjoy a taste of this Latin-inspired favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: 4 servings
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Homemade Pollo Loco is a flavorful, juicy grilled chicken dish marinated in a zesty, citrus-infused sauce and topped with melted cheese. This Mexican-inspired recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or summer barbecues!
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or queso fresco cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Melt the Cheese: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each chicken breast. Cover the grill and let the cheese melt.
- Serve: Remove from grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate overnight.
- Try adding a drizzle of chipotle sauce or guacamole for extra zest.
- Can be cooked on a stovetop grill pan if needed.
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