Pollo Asado Chipotle Review and Ways to Use It in Recipe

Pollo Asado Chipotle is a mouth-watering Mexican dish that gained popularity recently. It is a perfectly combined tender, juicy chicken marinated in a spicy chipotle sauce and grilled perfectly.

The dish is delicious and easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for many food enthusiasts. If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking for a flavorful dish to serve your guests, then Pollo Asado Chipotle is the perfect option. However, before preparing this dish, please understand what it is and how you should cook it.

In this article, we will give you an in-depth Chipotle pollo asado review, its history, ingredients, and how to prepare it. We will also provide tips and tricks to make your dish even more delicious.

What is Pollo Asado Chipotle

Pollo Asado Chipotle is a popular Mexican dish in northern Mexico, particularly in the Sonora and Chihuahua regions. The name “pollo asado” literally means “grilled chicken,” and “chipotle” refers to a type of smoked chili pepper commonly used in Mexican cuisine.

Also, Chipotle Mexican Grill is a popular restaurant from where the dish got its unique name, “Pollo Asado Chipotle.”

The origin of Pollo Asado Chipotle can be traced back to the traditional cooking techniques of the indigenous people of Mexico, who would cook meat over an open flame or in underground pits.

Over time, the dish evolved to incorporate ingredients and flavors from various regions of Mexico, resulting in the diverse and delicious cuisine we know.

Today, Pollo Asado Chipotle is a staple in Mexican restaurants and homes worldwide, loved for its bold and spicy flavor profile and versatility in various dishes.

Whether served in tacos, burritos, or on its own with rice and beans, this dish is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of Mexico.

Pollo Asado Chipotle Style Recipe

The chipotle-style recipe adds a smoky and slightly spicy kick to the traditional recipe, making it a crowd-pleaser. Here is the complete recipe.

Ingredients:

2 pounds of chicken thighs or breasts

2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)

1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)

1/4 cup of olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

Process

Note that you need a grilling pan, a zip lock bag or an airtight container, tongs, and meat thermometer to prepare and store this.

In a blender or food processor, blend the chipotle peppers, orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Place the chicken in a large ziplock bag or airtight container and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Chill the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally overnight.
To start cooking, set the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Then, take out the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

For extra flavor, grill some sliced onions and peppers alongside the chicken.
If using a grill pan, preheat it for several minutes before adding the chicken to ensure a nice sear.
Don’t overcook the chicken – use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or grilled vegetables.

How to serve it?

When serving pollo asado, garnish it with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for extra flavor. And Remember to have plenty of cold drinks on hand to cool down the heat from the chipotle peppers!

You can use various sides to complement its smoky and spicy flavors. Here are some popular options:

1. Rice

A simple white or brown rice side is a classic pairing with pollo asado. You can also add some herbs or spices to the rice to complement the flavors of the chicken.

2. Beans

Refried or black beans are another traditional side that goes well with pollo asado. They add protein and texture to the meal.

3. Guacamole

A scoop of fresh guacamole is a great way to add creaminess and freshness to the dish. You can make your own guacamole by mashing avocado with lime juice, salt, and other seasonings.

4. Salsa

A spicy salsa or pico de gallo can add extra heat and acidity to the meal. You can make your salsa with tomatoes, onions, chilies, and cilantro

5. Tortillas

Warm tortillas are a must-have for any Mexican-inspired meal. You can use them to make tacos or simply serve them on the side for dipping.

When to serve?

Pollo Asado Chipotle is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. It is perfect for summer barbecues, outdoor gatherings, and a weeknight family dinner. The flavorful and juicy chicken pairs well with various sides, making it an ideal dish for potlucks or picnics.

If you’re planning a Mexican-themed dinner party or a Cinco de Mayo celebration, this dish is a must-have on the menu.

The smoky chipotle flavor and tender chicken will satisfy and impress your guests. It’s also an excellent option for game day or tailgating, as it’s easy to transport and serve.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or planning a big event, this dish is sure to please.

Ways to store Pollo Asado Chipotle

First, allow your dish to cool down to room temperature. Afterwards, transfer the food to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

If you want to freeze it, place the cooled Pollo Asado Chipotle in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

However, the reheated dish will not be as juicy or tender as when freshly prepared, so it’s best to consume it within a few days. Don’t reheat the same leftovers more than once, which can lead to foodborne illness.

Chipotle Pollo Asado Vs Chicken

Chipotle pollo asado and chicken are popular protein options often used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. While they may seem similar at first glance, the two have some key differences.

Chipotle pollo asado is marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, including chipotle peppers, which give it a smoky, spicy flavor. The chicken is then grilled or roasted until it is tender and juicy. The marinade and cooking process gives the meat a distinct flavor that sets it apart from regular chicken.

On the other hand, chicken is a versatile protein that can be prepared in various ways, such as grilling, roasting, baking, frying, and more. Depending on the desired flavor profile, it can be seasoned with a wide range of spices and herbs or even left plain.

While both are delicious, chipotle pollo asado has a more complex flavor profile well-suited to Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

Conversely, chicken is a more neutral protein that can be used in various dishes, from salads to pasta to stir-fries.

Pollo Asado Vs Chicken Chipotle

Pollo asado is a traditional grilled or roasted chicken marinated in citrus juices, garlic, and herbs such as oregano and cumin. This gives it a tangy and slightly spicy taste, usually served with rice, beans, and tortillas.

However, chicken chipotle is cooked in a smoky, spicy tomato-based sauce with chipotle peppers, onions, garlic, and cilantro. This dish is usually served over rice or with tortillas.

The main difference between the two dishes lies in their flavor profile, with pollo asado having a refreshing, citrusy taste with hints of garlic and herbs. In contrast, chicken chipotle has a rich, smoky, and spicy flavor with a tomato-based sauce.

The preparation of pollo asado involves grilling or roasting, while chicken chipotle is cooked on the stove in a saucepan.

Additionally, the two dishes require slightly different ingredients, with pollo asado relying more on citrus juices and herbs, while chicken chipotle uses tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and other spices.

Ultimately, the choice between the two dishes comes down to personal preference for flavor and preparation style. Regardless of choice, pollo asado and chicken chipotle are flavorful and tasty chicken dishes that many enjoy in Mexican cuisine.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. What is pollo asado?

Pollo asado is a Mexican-style grilled or roasted chicken dish marinated in citrus juice, garlic, and herbs such as oregano and cumin.

2. What is Chipotle?

Chipotle is a smoked and dried jalapeño pepper commonly used in Mexican cuisine for its distinctive smoky and spicy flavor. It also has a popular restaurant “Chipotle Mexican Grill.”

3. Can I use boneless chicken for pollo asado?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for pollo asado. However, bone-in chicken is typically preferred as it adds more flavor and moisture.

4. How long should I marinate the chicken for pollo asado?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

5. Can I grill or roast pollo asado in the oven?

Yes, you can grill or roast pollo asado in the oven. However, grilling is the traditional method for preparing this dish as it gives the chicken a smoky flavor and crispy texture.

6. What can I serve with pollo asado?

Pollo asado is typically served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Add toppings such as avocado, salsa, and cilantro for added flavor.

7. How long can I store leftover pollo asado in the refrigerator?

Leftover pollo asado can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

8. Can I freeze pollo asado?

Yes, you can freeze pollo asado. Frozen the chicken separately from the marinade for up to 2-3 months is recommended

9. What is the difference between pollo asado and chicken chipotle?

Pollo asado is a classic Mexican-style chicken dish marinated in citrus juice, garlic, and herbs. In contrast, chicken chipotle is cooked in a smoky, spicy tomato-based sauce with chipotle peppers. The two dishes have different flavor profiles and preparation methods.

10. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Pollo Asado Chipotle?

Yes, you can use it. However, remember that chicken breasts dry out faster than thighs, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly. Chicken breasts have a milder flavor than thighs, so you may want to add more seasoning or marinate them longer to ensure they are flavorful.