Beef Free Pollo Asado

Total time3 hr

Prep time20 min

Cook time40 min

4.7

(14)

Smoky, citrus-soaked, and deeply charred at the edges, this grilled chicken is the kind of meal that makes everyone hover near the grill asking when it'll be ready. Bone-in thighs and drumsticks are marinated in a bold blend of orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika — a combination that builds serious flavor from the inside out. The citrus does double duty, tenderizing the meat while the warm spices create that gorgeous, caramelized crust you want from a proper asado. Whether you go full grill or finish things off in a hot oven, the result is juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken with crispy, charred skin that's hard to beat. A squeeze of fresh lime and a handful of cilantro at the end bring everything together with a bright, herby finish. This is a naturally beef-free dish that doesn't ask you to compromise on anything — it's just straightforward, crowd-pleasing cooking at its best.

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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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