Pollo Asado
Indulge in the rich flavors of pollo asado, a classic Latin American dish featuring succulent roasted chicken marinated in vibrant spices. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, pollo asado is a true crowd-pleaser that combines ease of preparation with extraordinary flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 tablespoon oregano
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the chicken) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, and 1g of carbohydrates. This nutritional value is based on a serving size of one-sixth of the roasted chicken.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for deeper flavor.
5. Place the chicken on a roasting pan, breast side up.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
7. Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking.
8. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite sides.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the whole chicken with chicken pieces for quicker cooking. Additionally, if you prefer a different flavor profile, consider using lemon instead of lime, or adding chili powder for a spicier kick.
Serving and Pairings
Pollo asado pairs beautifully with rice and beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortillas for a delightful taco night experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pollo asado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip marinating; it enhances flavor.
– Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
– Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even results.
– Check the internal temperature for doneness.
– Use a roasting pan with a rack for better heat circulation.
Helpful Tips
– Let the chicken rest before carving for juiciness.
– Experiment with different spices and herbs for variety.
– Add vegetables to the roasting pan for a complete meal.
– Use the leftover carcass to make flavorful stock.
FAQs
What is pollo asado?
Pollo asado is a traditional Latin American dish featuring marinated and roasted chicken, known for its flavorful spices and tender meat.
Can I make pollo asado in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook pollo asado in an air fryer. Adjust the cooking time to about 45 minutes, checking for doneness.
What sides go well with pollo asado?
Popular sides include rice and beans, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables, which complement the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Is pollo asado spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the recipe. Traditional versions are mildly spiced, but you can add more chili powder for heat.
Can I use skinless chicken for pollo asado?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken, but the skin adds flavor and moisture during cooking, so adjust your cooking method accordingly.
Conclusion
Pollo asado is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Perfect for any occasion, this roasted chicken will surely become a family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to your table. Enjoy every bite!
Pollo Asado
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4-5 lbs
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 lime juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
- Place the chicken on a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
