Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today we’re going to dive into the culinary world Homemade Pollo Loco, a succulent, delicious barbecued chicken recipe, served with rich rice that’s as good as the best restaurant’s version. If you’re making this for an entire family or are craving something exciting and satisfying This recipe is sure to give you a taste within your kitchen.
Introduction
The vibrant flavors that are typical of Mexican dishes, Homemade Pollo Loco combines strong spices, zesty citrus and tender grilled chicken to create a meal that is both cozy and simple to cook. With a creamy, delicious rice, it’s an incredibly versatile recipe that’s ideal for parties at dinner or evening meals on the go. If you’re a lover of delicious grilled foods this recipe is one you must try!
Ingredients for Homemade Pollo Loco
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/2 lbs of chicken breasts or thighs (boneless as well as skinless)
- 1 cup juice of orange
- 2 Tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 1 tsp oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Rice
- 1 cup white long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Half cup thick cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper as desired
How to Make Homemade Pollo Loco – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
A large mixing bowl mix together lime juice, orange juice and olive oil. Add garlic cumin, smoked chili powder, paprika, salt, oregano and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken into the marinade and ensure that it’s completely coated. Cover the bowl with a lid and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or up to 8 hours for the best flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Grill or grill pan on medium temperature. Take the chicken out of marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes on each portion until it reaches the internal temperature 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74degC). The chicken should sit for five minutes prior to cutting it into pieces.
Step 4: Cook the Creamy Rice
In a medium saucepan, mix the chicken broth and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer then cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is soft and the liquid has taken up. Add heavy cream, sour cream onion powder, garlic powder salt and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it becomes the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Serve the grilled chicken with the rice, and garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.
Helpful Tips for Homemade Pollo Loco
- To add a bit of flavor you can add a dash of cayenne pepper in the marinade.
- Freshly squeezed lime and orange juices give the best flavor.
- For a smokey look make use of charcoal grill.
Cooking Tips for the Best Homemade Pollo Loco
- Make use of a meat thermometer make sure the chicken is cooked to 165 degrees F.
- Do not overcrowd the grill to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few hours before cutting to preserve the juices.
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Pollo Loco
Serve this meal with a bowl of guacamole and a refreshing green salad or an icy glass of limeade. It’s a fusion meal that can be served with a variety of dishes, making it suitable to serve for every occasion.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 20g
Storage and Leftovers for Homemade Pollo Loco
- Storage Remaining food items can be stored in an airtight jar in your refrigerator up 3 days.
- Reheating Heat the cooked rice, chicken in a separate microwave or over the stovetop for the most delicious texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Homemade Pollo Loco
1. Can I make use of chicken breasts instead thighs?
Chicken breasts can work well, but the thighs are softer and succulent.
2. Do I have to cook the rice in advance?
Absolutely! Reheat the rice in a gentle manner with the addition of a splash of cream in order to bring back its creamy.
3. What happens if I don’t own an outdoor grill?
A grill pan or broiler are good alternative options.
4. Can I freeze any leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the rice and chicken in separate containers for a maximum of 2 months. Then, let them rest overnight before reheating.
Related Recipes for Pollo Lovers
Conclusion
Here’s the recipe for home-cooked Pollo Loco, a vibrant and delicious dish that is sure to please! We’d be interested in hearing your thoughts or other variations to this recipe. Comment below and tell us what you think of how you think your Pollo Loco turned out!
Bonne appetit!
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Homemade Pollo Loco : Juicy Chicken Recipes
Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Homemade Pollo Loco, a juicy, flavorful grilled chicken recipe paired with creamy rice that rivals your favorite restaurant’s version. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or craving something bold and satisfying, this recipe is here to deliver a flavorful experience right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless and skinless)
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Cook the Creamy Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until creamy.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Serve the grilled chicken over the creamy rice and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Freshly squeezed orange and lime juices yield the best taste.
- For a smoky finish, use a charcoal grill.
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