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El Pollo Loco Chicken copycat Recipe

El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

El Pollo Loco chicken shines when paired with Mexican rice, whose light, fluffy texture and spiced tomato flavor highlight the smoky chicken beautifully.
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Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8
Calories 175 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill or Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 jalapeño seeds removed and finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  • Start by whisking together the pineapple juice, lime juice, vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, jalapeño, minced garlic, canola oil, salt, oregano, and black pepper in a bowl. Make sure everything is mixed well.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  • Place your chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating each piece evenly.
  • Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least two hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven

  • If you're grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. If grilling, place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. For the oven, place them skin-side up on a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Flip and Monitor Cooking

  • If grilling, cook for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and grill the other side for another 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, cook for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 6: Let it Rest

  • Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy.

Notes

  • Marinate Longer: If you have the time, marinating the chicken overnight elevates the flavor.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and limes make a noticeable difference compared to their bottled alternatives.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the jalapeño for heat.
  • Check Temperature: A meat thermometer ensures you cook the chicken perfectly without drying it out.
  • Sear for Extra Flavor: If you want extra char, sear the chicken in a skillet for 3–4 minutes on each side before finishing it on the grill.

Nutrition

Serving: 74gCalories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 4gFat: 14.9gSaturated Fat: 3.7gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 34mgSodium: 163mgSugar: 5g
Keyword El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe
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