Description
Homemade Juicy Pollo Loco Chicken is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- Whole chicken – 1 (about 4-5 lbs)
- Olive oil – 1/4 cup
- Lime juice – 1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
- Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
- Cumin – 1 tablespoon
- Paprika – 1 tablespoon
- Oregano – 1 tablespoon (dried)
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh cilantro – 1/4 cup (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the whole chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a deep dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken for Roasting: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan. Tuck the wing tips under the chicken.
- Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Check for Doneness: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Carve the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and serve warm.
Notes
- For lower-fat options, consider using skinless chicken or chicken parts.
- For a gluten-free version, all spices are naturally gluten-free.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or chili flakes to the marinade.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of chicken
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Pollo Loco, Chicken, Roasted Chicken, Mexican Cuisine, Family Dinner