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
Buy Now →Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- 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.