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Pollo Asado Chipotle Copycat

Pollo Asado (Chipotle Copycat Recipe)

Smoky, citrusy grilled chicken marinated in chipotle peppers, lime, and orange juice. Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, and salads.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 322

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4-5 tablespoons water optional, for pan frying method
  • 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 7 oz can
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 2-3 limes
  • 4 tablespoons fresh orange juice about 1 orange
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro loosely packed
  • 6 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1 medium onion quartered
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano Mexican oregano preferred
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander optional
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Grill, skillet, or air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Large resealable bag or airtight container

Method
 

  1. Add all marinade ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend for 30-45 seconds until the sauce is completely smooth with no visible chunks. The mixture should be a vibrant reddish-orange color.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal and massage the bag gently to distribute the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight marinating produces the most flavorful results.
  3. For grilling: Preheat your grill to 350-400°F and lightly oil the grates. Grill the chicken for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The edges should have nice charred spots. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. For pan searing: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the chicken along with all the marinade from the bag. Cook for 5 minutes without moving, then flip and cook another 3-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add a splash of water if the sauce starts to dry out. Drizzle the pan sauce over the cooked chicken for extra moisture and flavor. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  5. For air frying: Lightly oil the basket and arrange chicken in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes, flip, then cook another 6-7 minutes until it reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep all the juices inside.

Notes

Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for the most tender results. Marinate at least 30 minutes, overnight is best for maximum flavor. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months. Note: Prep time does not include marinating time (30 minutes minimum to 24 hours maximum).