Name: Homemade Pollo Loco
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For the Chicken Marinade:; 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tbsp orange juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; For the Queso Sauce (Optional):; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp chili powder; Salt to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pollo Loco is the perfect combination of smoky, zesty grilled chicken with a creamy, cheesy queso sauce that takes it to the next level. The marinade packs the chicken with bold flavors from lime, orange juice, and aromatic spices, while the optional queso sauce adds a rich, indulgent finish. Whether served over rice, with tortillas, or paired with your favorite sides, this meal will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp orange juice
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Queso Sauce (Optional):

1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp chili powder
Salt to taste

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

Grill the Chicken:

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Make the Queso Sauce (Optional):

Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Serve:

Plate the Dish: Serve the grilled chicken over rice, topped with the queso sauce if desired. Add tortillas, beans, or grilled vegetables on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the marinade for extra heat.
No Grill?: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. The chicken can also be used in tacos, salads, or bowls the next day!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them ideal for grilling.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.

Can I make this recipe without the queso sauce?

Absolutely! The marinated chicken is flavorful on its own, and you can serve it with salsa, guacamole, or any other topping of your choice.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, marinate it up to 8 hours.

Can I make the queso sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the queso sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade Pollo Loco is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the bold and vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your home. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to satisfy with its juicy, marinated chicken and creamy queso sauce. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion.