Low Sugar Pollo Asado
Bright citrus, smoky spices, and deeply charred skin make this one of those dishes that looks and tastes like it took serious effort — but the marinade does almost all the work for you. Fresh orange juice and lime juice bring natural sweetness and acidity without a single drop of added sugar, which means every bit of flavor here comes from real, whole ingredients. Cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and oregano layer together into a marinade that's bold and complex, and after a few hours in the fridge the chicken soaks it all up beautifully. You can finish it on the grill for serious char and smokiness, or go straight to a hot oven if that's more your speed — either way, you're pulling off restaurant-quality results at home. The skin crisps up to something almost caramelized-looking, thanks entirely to the citrus and spices rather than any sweetener. A squeeze of fresh lime and a handful of cilantro at the end keeps everything bright and lively on the plate. It's the kind of weeknight dinner that quietly becomes a household staple.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the chicken
- 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
For the marinade
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For serving
- lime wedges, for serving (optional)
- fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using) until combined.
- 2
Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning each piece to coat thoroughly. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours.
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