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
Units
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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.
