Description
Discover the bold flavors of Homemade Pollo Loco! This dish features juicy, spice-marinated grilled chicken paired with creamy, flavorful rice, offering a restaurant-quality meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the chicken marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the creamy rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Creamy Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Serve grilled chicken over creamy rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing chili powder to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
