El Pollo Loco Chicken

Try this El Pollo Loco marinade recipe for chicken that tastes like it came from the restaurant.

El Pollo Loco is renowned for its delicious grilled chicken, which is marinated in a unique blend of flavors and cooked to perfection.

The chicken at El Pollo Loco starts with high-quality, fresh chicken pieces that are marinated in a flavorful mixture. The marinade typically includes a combination of citrus juices, herbs, spices, and other secret ingredients that give the chicken its distinct taste. This marinade not only adds a delightful tanginess to the chicken but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful bites.

Once marinated, the chicken is grilled over an open flame, which imparts a smoky char and enhances the natural flavors of the meat. El Pollo Loco takes pride in its unique grilling technique, ensuring that each piece of chicken is cooked to perfection, with a crispy and caramelized exterior and tender, succulent meat inside.

El Pollo Loco offers a variety of options to enjoy their famous chicken, from individual chicken pieces to combo meals with sides like rice, beans, and salad. Customers can also choose from different cuts of chicken, including drumsticks, thighs, breasts, and wings, depending on their preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal on the go or a satisfying family dinner, El Pollo Loco’s chicken is a popular choice. Its flavorful marinade, combined with the smoky grilling technique, creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

So, the next time you’re craving flavorful grilled chicken, give El Pollo Loco a try and indulge in their signature chicken dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• ¾ cup Heinz Chili Sauce
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 large orange
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Tabasco sauce, to taste
• 4 boneless chicken breasts

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a baking dish, combine Heinz Chili Sauce, lemon juice, orange juice, vegetable oil, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco sauce. Mix well to combine.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for about 10 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Serve the grilled chicken breasts as a main dish, alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Chicken Combos: El Pollo Loco offers combo meals that include grilled chicken along with sides like rice, beans, coleslaw, and warm tortillas. These combos provide a complete and satisfying meal.
• Chicken Tacos: Use the grilled chicken to make flavorful chicken tacos. Fill warm tortillas with sliced chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite salsa or guacamole for a delicious handheld treat.
• Chicken Salad: Slice the grilled chicken and use it as a topping for a fresh and vibrant salad. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and any other desired veggies. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette or creamy dressing.
• Chicken Burritos or Quesadillas: Create hearty and filling burritos or quesadillas using the grilled chicken as the star ingredient. Add cheese, sautéed peppers and onions, and any other desired fillings for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Chicken Bowl: Build a nutritious bowl with a base of rice or quinoa, topped with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. Customize with your favorite toppings for a well-balanced and tasty meal.
• Chicken Wrap: Wrap sliced grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado in a large tortilla for a convenient and delicious lunch option.