Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe The Juicy Goodness
Calling all home cooks with a craving for bold flavors and smoky goodness! Gear up for a culinary adventure as we delve into the secrets behind the legendary Chipotle Pollo Asado. Remember those sizzling strips of juicy, marinated chicken that grace your Chipotle burrito bowls? Well, move over takeout menus, because you can now recreate this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen.
This Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe takes boneless, skinless chicken breasts and infuses them with a vibrant marinade bursting with citrus, smoky chipotle peppers, and warm spices. Imagine this: succulent, tender chicken pieces nestled in a bed of fluffy rice, alongside your favorite Chipotle toppings. Each bite explodes with a symphony of flavor – smoky heat, bright citrus, and a hint of earthy warmth.
But the beauty of this Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe goes beyond just taste. It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep work and readily available ingredients. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor, or explore serving it in tacos, salads, or quesadillas.
Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes1200
kcalIngredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of the show!
2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
½ cup fresh orange juice: The bright citrus adds a refreshing tang that complements the smoky chipotle peppers.
¼ cup fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice adds another layer of acidity and brightness to the marinade.
2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped: Chipotle peppers are the heart and soul of this recipe, offering a smoky depth of flavor. Start with two and add more for extra heat!
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse, adding a savory punch to the marinade.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the chipotle peppers.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness without the overpowering heat of chipotle peppers.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano brings a subtle herbal note to the marinade, rounding out the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances all the other flavors in the marinade.
Freshly ground black pepper: A sprinkle of black pepper adds a touch of warmth.
Optional Garnish
Directions
- Assemble the Flavor Brigade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (remember, start with two and adjust for heat!), minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prep the Chicken Stars: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures even browning during cooking.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared marinade. Toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a large zip-top bag (a convenient option for space-saving!). Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or ideally, for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
- Heat Up the Pan: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Sizzle Time! Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, leaving some space between them to ensure even cooking.
- Cook with Care: Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is recommended for safe consumption.
- Rest for Perfection: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a plate and tent them loosely with foil. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Now that your Chipotle Pollo Asado is cooked to juicy perfection, it’s time to unleash the flavor on your taste buds! Slice the chicken breasts into strips and serve them over your favorite Chipotle toppings like fluffy rice, black beans, salsa, guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream. For an extra pop of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Get ready to experience a fiesta of smoky, citrusy, and savory flavors in every delicious bite!
Recipe Video
Tips For Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
Our Chipotle Pollo Asado recipe is a delicious foundation, but just like any good chef, you can add your personal touch to create a flavor masterpiece that suits your taste buds. Here are some tips to help you experiment and find your perfect balance of smoky goodness:
- Heat Seeker Alert: For a fiery fiesta, add an extra chipotle pepper or two to the marinade. Start slow and taste the marinade as you go to adjust the spice level.
- Citrus Twist: Don’t have fresh orange juice on hand? No problem! Substitute an equal amount of grapefruit juice for a slightly tart twist on the citrus flavor profile.
- A Smoky Symphony: Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are a classic choice, but you can explore other smoky ingredients to add depth to your marinade. A teaspoon of smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, or try a pinch of chipotle powder for a more intense flavor.
- Marinade Magic: While 15 minutes is the minimum marinating time, aim for at least 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion. The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper and more complex the flavors become.
- Grilling Option: Love the taste of grilled chicken? Fire up your grill and cook the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Leftover Love: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Cooked and shredded chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use them in salads, tacos, quesadillas, or enjoy them cold over a bed of greens.
Serving Tips Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
Your Chipotle Pollo Asado is sizzling and ready to be devoured, but the culinary adventure doesn’t stop there! This versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying main course, or you can elevate it to a full meal with a few creative side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to transform your Chipotle Pollo Asado into a showstopping culinary experience:
- The Classic Chipotle Experience: Channel the spirit of Chipotle by pairing your chicken with a side of their signature cilantro lime rice. The fluffy texture and refreshing citrus notes perfectly complement the smoky and savory flavors of the chicken. Add a dollop of guacamole or sour cream for extra richness.
- A Fiesta of Flavors: Embrace the Mexican theme by serving your Chipotle Pollo Asado with a vibrant side salad and all your favorite toppings. Think chopped tomatoes, onions, shredded lettuce, black beans, corn, and a dollop of salsa for a burst of freshness and a symphony of textures.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Take a trip to Texas with a side of cheesy queso and warm tortillas. Dip the sliced chicken into the creamy queso for a decadent and satisfying experience. Wrap the chicken and your favorite toppings in the tortillas for a delicious do-it-yourself taco adventure.
- Healthy and Hearty: Balance the richness of the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables. Roasted broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers add a pop of color, essential nutrients, and a satisfying heartiness to your meal.
- Light and Refreshing: Opt for a lighter side by serving your Chipotle Pollo Asado with a side of mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette dressing. The freshness of the greens will cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a well-balanced and flavorful meal.
Nutrition in Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe
We’ve been tantalizing your taste buds with the smoky, citrusy goodness of Chipotle Pollo Asado, but it’s always important to consider the nutritional content of the meals we create. So, let’s delve into the specifics of this flavorful dish.
The exact nutritional breakdown of your Chipotle Pollo Asado can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients you use. However, this recipe generally provides a good source of lean protein thanks to the chicken breasts. Chicken is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs to build and repair tissues.
The marinade adds a vibrant mix of flavors without a significant increase in calories or fat. Olive oil, a heart-healthy fat, is used for cooking the chicken.
Here’s a ballpark estimate of the key nutrients per serving (assuming 1 serving equals 4 ounces of cooked chicken):
- Calories: Around 300 calories per serving (depending on cooking method and amount of oil used)
- Protein: Approximately 30 grams of protein per serving
- Fat: Roughly 10 grams of fat per serving (including a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats from chicken skin, olive oil, and marinade)
- Carbohydrates: Around 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving (from the marinade)
Conclusion
This Chipotle Pollo Asado Recipe unlocks the secrets to restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen. With readily available ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a protein-packed and flavorful main course that rivals your favorite takeout.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Spice enthusiasts can crank up the heat with extra chipotle peppers, citrus lovers can substitute grapefruit juice for a tangy twist, and grill masters can take the cooking outdoors for a smoky char. This recipe is your culinary canvas, ready for you to unleash your creativity and personalize your Chipotle Pollo Asado experience.
Ditch the delivery fees and the endless recipe browsing. This Chipotle Pollo Asado recipe is your weeknight hero, offering a customizable and flavorful option that’s sure to become a regular on your menu. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal, or elevate it to a full fiesta with a side of cilantro lime rice, a vibrant salad, or a cheesy queso and tortilla extravaganza.
FAQs
What is in Chipotle’s pollo asado?
Chipotle’s Pollo Asado typically consists of marinated grilled chicken seasoned with a blend of spices, including citrus, garlic, cumin, oregano, and paprika. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat.
What is pollo asado vs pollo Chipotle?
u0022Pollo asadou0022 translates to u0022grilled chickenu0022 in Spanish. It refers to a style of cooking chicken where the meat is marinated and then grilled. u0022Pollo Chipotleu0022 specifically refers to chicken dishes that incorporate chipotle peppers or chipotle sauce for a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
Did Chipotle stop selling pollo asado?
As of my last update, Chipotle has offered Pollo Asado as a limited-time menu item, so availability may vary depending on location and promotions. It’s always best to check with your local Chipotle or their website for the most up-to-date menu offerings.
What is pollo asado taste like?
The taste of Pollo Asado is rich, savory, and tangy, with a blend of flavors from the marinade, including the citrusy notes, spices, and the smokiness from the grilling process. It’s typically tender and juicy, making it a popular choice for chicken lovers who enjoy bold, flavorful dishes.
Marie Johnson is an accomplished recipe blog writer, blending her passion for cooking with her knack for storytelling. With years of experience in the culinary world, Marie’s writing transports readers into the heart of her kitchen, where every dish tells a delicious tale. Her recipes are not just instructions; they’re invitations to embark on culinary adventures, exploring flavors, cultures, and traditions.
