Pollo Asado Taco Recipe: Quick & Easy -

Last updated on November 14th, 2024 at 07:14 am

Tacos are a universal favorite, and when you fill them with Pollo Asado (grilled marinated chicken), they become irresistible. With its deep, smoky, citrusy flavors, pollo asado brings Mexican authenticity to your taco game. Perfect for taco Tuesdays, summer barbecues, or a family meal, pollo asado is an easy dish that can be prepped in advance, making it both convenient and mouthwateringly delicious.

This pollo asado taco recipe will teach you everything you need to know to create the perfect tacos—from marinating the chicken to grilling it for those signature charred edges, and adding flavorful toppings to customize your tacos just the way you like them.

Why Pollo Asado is Perfect for Tacos:

Pollo asado, with its robust marinade, transforms basic chicken into a powerhouse of flavor. The marinade, rich in citrus juices, garlic, cumin, and chili powder, breaks down the chicken’s proteins, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy. Grilling the chicken gives it that slightly smoky, charred exterior, making it a taco filling that bursts with flavor. Combined with classic taco toppings, pollo asado offers the perfect balance between freshness, spice, and savory satisfaction.

Ingredients for the Perfect Pollo Asado Marinade:

The secret to a good pollo asado lies in the marinade. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs work best because they remain juicy and flavorful when grilled, but chicken breasts can also be used.
1/4 cup fresh orange juice: This adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
1/4 cup fresh lime juice: Lime juice adds a zesty tang to balance out the flavors.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives the marinade a savory depth.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps to coat the chicken and prevents sticking during grilling.
1 tbsp ground cumin: Earthy and aromatic, cumin is essential to Mexican cooking.
1 tbsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness without using a smoker.
1 tsp chili powder: For a bit of heat and spice.
1 tsp dried oregano: Oregano brings in a slightly peppery, aromatic flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pollo Asado Tacos:

1. Marinate the Chicken

Marination is the key to making pollo asado tacos flavorful and tender. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re fully coated with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for at least 1 hour in the fridge, but ideally for 4-24 hours for the best flavor infusion. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavor will be.

2. Preheat the Grill

Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly. You want the grill hot enough to give you those beautiful char marks without overcooking the chicken.

3. Grill the Chicken

Once the grill is preheated, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, cooking for about 6-8 minutes on each side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s fully cooked but still juicy. The char marks are the sign that the pollo asado is perfectly grilled.

4. Let the Chicken Rest

After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it moist. Skipping this step can result in dry chicken.

5. Slice the Chicken

After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips, perfect for stuffing into your tacos. The thin slices allow for an even distribution of flavors with every bite.

6. Warm the Tortillas

Tacos are all about balance, and warm tortillas make all the difference. Use corn tortillas for an authentic Mexican experience or flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture. Warm them on a skillet or directly on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable and slightly toasted.

7. Assemble the Tacos

Now for the fun part—assembling your tacos! Lay out the sliced pollo asado on each tortilla and add your favorite toppings. Start with fresh cilantro and diced onions for a traditional approach, or get creative with salsa verde, avocado slices, pickled onions, or cotija cheese. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top for an extra punch of acidity.

Customizing Your Pollo Asado Tacos:

The beauty of tacos is that they can be customized to suit your taste. Here are a few ways to make these pollo asado tacos your own:

Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add chopped jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce on top
Sweet and Savory: For a twist, add some diced grilled pineapple or mango salsa. The sweetness will complement the smokiness of the pollo asado.
Crunchy Texture: Add shredded cabbage or lettuce for a bit of crunch, balancing the soft tortillas and juicy chicken.
Creamy Factor: A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of crema will add a luscious creaminess that mellows out the spices.

Check out our Meatloaf Recipe with Lipton Onion Soup Mix for another flavorful dish!

Topping Ideas:

Here’s a list of popular and delicious toppings to take your tacos to the next level:

Salsa Verde: A tangy tomatillo-based salsa that adds a refreshing burst of flavor.
Pico de Gallo: Freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a light, zesty topping.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich avocado mash with lime, salt, and cilantro.
Pickled Red Onions: These add a sweet and sour crunch that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Crumbled Cotija Cheese: A salty, crumbly cheese that gives your tacos a deliciously savory bite.
Lime Wedges: Fresh lime juice adds a burst of brightness that brings out the flavors of the chicken.

Pollo asado is an incredibly versatile dish. While it’s perfect for tacos, it can also be used in burritos, salads, or served with rice and beans for a complete meal. You can experiment with different toppings, such as grilled vegetables, fresh guacamole, or spicy salsa.

For another fantastic grilled chicken taco variation, check out this Pollo Asado Grilled Chicken Tacos recipe from The Communal Feast, which offers a delicious twist on the traditional preparation.

Pairing Sides for Pollo Asado Tacos:

No taco night is complete without some great sides. Here are a few that pair perfectly with pollo asado tacos:

Mexican Rice: Fluffy, flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Refried Beans: Creamy and delicious, these beans are perfect for scooping up with tacos.
Grilled Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Charred corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, sprinkled with chili powder, and topped with cotija cheese and lime juice.

FAQs About Pollo Asado Taco Recipe

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they might cook faster than thighs. To prevent them from drying out, marinate them well and avoid overcooking. Chicken breasts generally take 4-5 minutes per side on a grill.

2. Can I prepare pollo asado without a grill?

Absolutely. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop, or even bake it in the oven. For stovetop grilling, cook the chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked. To bake, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

3. How do I store leftover pollo asado?

Leftover pollo asado can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

4. What can I use instead of lime juice for the marinade?

If you’re out of lime juice, you can substitute with lemon juice or a splash of vinegar. Both will provide the acidity needed for tenderizing the chicken and infusing flavor.

5. Can I make the pollo asado marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply marinate the chicken as usual. This is a great option if you’re planning a party or meal prep and want to save time.

6. What is the best way to reheat pollo asado for tacos?

To reheat pollo asado, the best method is to use a skillet. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and add the chicken, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps retain the chicken’s moisture and prevents it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be careful not to overcook it.

7. Can I use the pollo asado for other dishes besides tacos?

Yes, pollo asado is versatile! Besides tacos, you can use it in burritos, quesadillas, salads, rice bowls, or even serve it alongside vegetables or tortillas as a stand-alone dish.