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El Pollo Loco Grilled Chicken Recipe

El Pollo Loco Grilled Chicken Recipe

5 from 3 votes
El Pollo Loco’s grilled chicken has a unmistakably flavorful citrus-spice taste that pulls everyone in, and with this homemade version you can experience that same flavor in your own kitchen. The marinade was inspired by Restaurant grilled chicken, and every step is simple and full of flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken about 5 pounds, spatchcocked and halved
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tsp ancho chili powder
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp allspice
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground coriander
  • A few pinches safflower for natural color
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • 2.5-gallon zip-top bags
  • Tongs
  • Gas or charcoal grill
  • Instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine all juices, oil, garlic, spices, safflower, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Iris very well.
  2. Add the halved chicken into a large zip-top bag. Add the marinade on top of the chicken.
  3. Seal the bag and shake the chicken around until it’s thoroughly coated.
  4. Put in the refrigerator overnight to get the best flavor.
  5. Preheat the grill to 350–375°F. Make sure you are using indirect heat.
  6. Lay the chicken skin side up and facing away from the heat source.
  7. Put the lid down, and check on it from time to time during the cooking.
  8. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F in the thigh and 160–161°F in the breast.
  9. You can also rotate the chicken during the cooking process to get color if you wish.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Video

Notes

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To keep the chicken juicy, you can reheat it in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or warm it gently in a covered pan. If you choose to microwave, do not microwave the chicken for too long, as it could dry out the meat. You may also choose to shred the leftover chicken and use them for tacos or bowls.