Description
This Copycat Pollo Loco: How to Make the Famous Flame-Grilled Chicken at Home recipe offers a vibrant and flavorful chicken dish, marinated with citrus and spices, and grilled to perfection. Ideal for impressing family and friends, it captures the essence of the beloved Pollo Loco flame-grilled chicken right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
1 whole Chicken (cut into 8 pieces)
2 large Oranges (juiced)
3 large Limes (juiced)
1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
8-10 Garlic Cloves (minced)
2 teaspoons Cumi
1 tablespoon Chili Powder
1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1 tablespoon Salt
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/4 cup Olive Oil
1/4 cup Water
1/4 cup Cilantro (fresh, chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces, then cut into 8 pieces if using a whole chicke
- Make the Marinade: Combine orange juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and water in a bowl and whisk until combined
- Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken to the marinade, coating thoroughly, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight
- Preheat Your Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates
- Grill the Chicken (Initial Sear): Remove chicken from marinade and grill skin-side down for 4-6 minutes per side until seared
- Grill the Chicken (Indirect Cooking): Move chicken to indirect heat and cook for 25-40 minutes, flipping every 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Rest and Serve: Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnished with cilantro if desired
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before marinating for better flavor absorption.
Use freshly squeezed juices for the best flavor.
Allow for a 12-24 hour marination for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American