Ginger Free Pollo Asado

Total time3 hr

Prep time20 min

Cook time40 min

4.7

(14)

Smoky, citrus-drenched, and deeply satisfying, this grilled chicken is the kind of dish that makes everyone hover near the grill. The marinade layers orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and oregano into something genuinely complex — and every single ingredient in it is naturally free of ginger, so there's no need to swap anything out or second-guess a label. Many bold marinades and spice blends sneak in ginger as a background note, but this one builds all its warmth and depth from cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of cayenne instead. Bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks soak up that citrusy marinade beautifully, and the high heat — whether on the grill or in a hot oven — gives the skin that irresistible char. Letting the chicken rest before serving keeps the juices locked in, so every bite is tender and flavorful all the way to the bone. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime and a handful of cilantro, and you've got a showstopper that's as weeknight-friendly as it is impressive for a crowd.

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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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