What is Chicken Asado?

Chicken Asado is a Latin-inspired dish featuring chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of citrus juices, achiote paste, garlic, and bold spices. It’s known for its deep reddish color and smoky, tangy flavor. While variations exist across Latin America and the Philippines, this version is especially popular in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking.

What is the difference between Chicken Adobo and Chicken Asado?

Great question! Though both dishes are flavorful and beloved in Filipino cuisine, they’re quite different. Chicken Adobo is braised in a savory soy sauce and vinegar base, often with bay leaves and black peppercorns. Chicken Asado , on the other hand, uses citrus, achiote, and spices for a zesty, slightly sweet flavor—and is typically grilled or baked rather than braised.

What is the taste of Asado?

Chicken Asado is bold and well-balanced—it’s citrusy from the orange and lime, earthy from the achiote, a little smoky from the paprika, and rounded out by a warm blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and chipotle. It’s the kind of flavor that makes your mouth do a happy dance.

Is Pollo Asado spicy hot?

It has a gentle kick , but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. The chipotle chile pepper adds smoky depth rather than mouth-burning heat. Want to tone it down? Just use a little less chipotle or skip it altogether. Want to crank it up? Toss in some cayenne or hot sauce and live your best spicy life!

Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely. Just adjust the grill or oven time slightly—boneless thighs or breasts will cook a bit faster. Aim for that 165°F sweet spot.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth to keep things juicy.

Can I freeze Chicken Asado?

Yes! Freeze the marinated (uncooked) chicken for up to 3 months , or freeze cooked leftovers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Chicken Asado Delight: 1 Irresistible Recipe

Description

This bold and zesty Chicken Asado is marinated in citrus juices, achiote, and smoky spices, then grilled or baked to juicy perfection. Perfect for taco night, rice bowls, or your next family cookout!

Ingredients

Scale

4–5 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed)
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
1 small yellow onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 oz achiote paste
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp kosher salt
2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp chipotle chile pepper

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl or freezer bag, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, onion, garlic, achiote paste, and all spices. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours. Let chicken sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before cooking.
Grill Method:
Preheat grill to 425–450°F and grease the grates. Grill chicken skin-side down first (if skin is on) for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 175°F. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in a single layer. Bake for 25–35 minutes, until internal temp reaches 175°F.
Serve:
Serve hot with tortillas, rice, elotes, or your favorite salsa.

Notes

If using chicken breasts, reduce marinating time to a max of 12 hours.
Leftovers are great for tacos, bowls, or nachos.
Adjust chipotle for more or less heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes + marinating time
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling or baking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 thigh
Calories: 335 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 840 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 31 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg