Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with Pollo Loco, a vibrant and zesty Mexican-inspired grilled chicken recipe that's sure to become a household favorite. This dish features juicy, marinated chicken thighs infused with a flavorful blend of Greek yogurt, fresh orange and lime juices, garlic, and warming spices like paprika, cumin, and chili powder. The unique yogurt-based marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures every bite is packed with tangy, citrusy richness. Grilled to perfection, with just the right amount of char, Pollo Loco is easy to prepare and makes the perfect centerpiece for your next family meal or backyard barbecue. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and lime wedges to brighten the dish, and pair it with sides like rice, beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, Pollo Loco is your gateway to bold, crowd-pleasing flavors!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Whisk until well blended and smooth to create the marinade.
Place the chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat all pieces evenly, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged or well covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer chicken and marinade to a sealable plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place it directly onto the hot grill. Discard the remaining marinade.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the outside is slightly charred and golden.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra pop of citrus flavor. Pair with your favorite sides such as rice, beans, or a crisp green salad.
Calories |
2518 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 134.5 g | 172% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.8 g | 174% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1013 mg | 338% | |
| Sodium | 3248 mg | 141% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 59.4 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.9 g | ||
| Protein | 263.9 g | 528% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 514 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 12.2 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 3223 mg | 69% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.