Discover this flavorful Pollo Asado with Rice, a perfect addition to your collection of mexican dinner recipes. This dish brings vibrant, tangy flavors to your table with minimal effort, making it ideal for any weeknight. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work.
- Achiote Paste: Essential for color and flavor; you can find it in the international aisle.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is traditional, but brown rice can be substituted.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a suitable alternative.
Ingredients:
For the Pollo Asado:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 (3.5 oz) annatto (achiote) paste
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, large skillet, medium saucepan.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the achiote paste, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth. This marinade is key to delicious mexican dinner recipes.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
4. Prepare the Rice
While the chicken cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted. This step adds depth to your rice for this mexican dinner recipe.
5. Cook the Rice
Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
6. Serve Your Pollo Asado
Slice the cooked chicken thighs against the grain. Serve the flavorful Pollo Asado over the fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright finish to this classic mexican dinner.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a squeeze of lime juice over the cooked chicken for extra zing.
- Include sliced bell peppers or onions in the skillet with the chicken for added vegetables.
- Serve with warm tortillas to make delicious tacos.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper in the marinade.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Pollo Asado and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Reheat the rice in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Adjust cooking time as they may cook faster.
Q: What is achiote paste?
A: Achiote paste, also known as annatto paste, is a vibrant red-orange condiment made from ground annatto seeds, spices, and vinegar. It gives a distinct earthy flavor and color.
Q: Can you prepare the marinade ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: How do you know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Q: Can you cook Pollo Asado on a grill?
A: Yes, grilled Pollo Asado is delicious! Cook over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: This recipe is not inherently spicy. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade if you prefer a spicier dish.