Cuban Pollo Asado is a juicy chicken recipe marinated in a sour orange juice with savory spices then roasted or grilled to charred perfection. Whether you make this easy pollo asado recipe on the barbeque or in the oven, the result will be full of bold Cuban flavors that everyone in the family will love!
In a bowl, whisk together the oil, sour orange juice, garlic, complete seasoning, annatto, cumin, salt and pepper to taste. This is your marinade.
Into a resealable freezer bag, add the chicken pieces and pour in the marinade. Toss and massage the chicken pieces really well with the marinade. Place the resealable bag in the fridge to marinate for 2 hours or up to overnight.
To Grill or Barbeque The Chicken
Preheat a grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade.
Grill the chicken, skin side down, for 5 minutes until slightly charred.
Flip and cook the chicken in indirect heat, skin side up, for 30-35 minutes, keeping a close eye on the grill as the chicken can burn quickly. You can flip them over again, if necessary. When a food thermometer reads 165°F internal temp in the thickest part of the chicken, it’s ready!
To Roast The Chicken In The Oven
Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Place a wire rack inside a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray the wire rack with cooking spray. Set aside.
Place the chicken thighs on the rack about 1-2 inches apart. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a food thermometer reads 165°F internal temp in the thickest part of the chicken.
Broil on low for 5 minutes if you like that charred, golden brown skin on the chicken.
Remove the chicken from the heat. Serve with white rice, black beans, and/or sweet plantains. Enjoy!