Fire-Grilled Chicken from El Pollo Loco features tender, marinated chicken pieces flame-grilled to perfection, with a smoky char and juicy interior, seasoned with a blend of citrus, garlic, and savory spices for a bold and flavorful experience.
Equipments
- Grill (Charcoal or Gas)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Basting brush
- Grill brush (for cleaning)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Food-safe gloves (optional)
- Marinating container or zip-top bags
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lime
- Zest of 1 lemon
Using fresh citrus juices like orange, lime, and lemon is essential for marinading your chicken to achieve the authentic tangy flavor that defines Fire-Grilled Chicken from El Pollo Loco. The blend of spices, including cumin, paprika, oregano, and chili powder, provides a smoky and savory profile, so measuring them accurately will enhance the dish's bold taste. Incorporate zest from the same citrus fruits to intensify the aroma and add a subtle sweetness to your marinade. Olive oil and soy sauce work together to keep the chicken moist and tender while grilling over high heat. Your copycat Fire-Grilled Chicken will capture the perfect balance of smoky char and juicy interior when you pay attention to these ingredient details.
Instructions
- Clean grill grates with grill brush and preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, chili powder, black pepper, kosher salt, white vinegar, soy sauce, orange zest, lime zest, and lemon zest.
- Place chicken pieces in marinating container or zip-top bag.
- Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels for better browning.
- Oil grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken pieces skin-side down over direct heat on grill.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with reserved marinade.
- Move chicken to indirect heat if necessary to prevent burning, cover grill, and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20–30 minutes total.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes on cutting board.
- Cut or portion as desired and serve immediately.
Substitution
Fire-Grilled Chicken from El Pollo Loco copycat menu delivers a smoky, citrus-marinated flavor reminiscent of the original. If you don't have access to fresh citrus juices, bottled orange, lime, and lemon juices can be used as a substitute, though fresh juice is recommended for best flavor. When grilling, using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF to guarantee safety and juiciness. You can marinate the chicken overnight in a zip-top bag or a non-reactive container to allow the flavors to fully develop. If a grill is not available, roasting or broiling the chicken in the oven can provide a similar result, but the distinct smoky char may be less pronounced.
Tips
Ensure your grill is fully preheated to 400degF and the grates are thoroughly cleaned to prevent sticking and achieve optimal searing. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to maximize flavor absorption from the citrus and spice blend. Patting the chicken dry before grilling promotes better browning and crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165degF for safe and juicy results, and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to retain its juices.
Nutritions
Fire-Grilled Chicken from El Pollo Loco provides a high-protein meal rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C from the citrus juices and antioxidants from garlic and spices. The marinade, featuring olive oil and citrus fruits, contributes healthy fats and supports immune function while enhancing flavor without adding excess calories. Grilling the chicken at high temperatures seals in moisture and reduces fat content by allowing excess fat to drip away, making your meal both flavorful and nutritious. Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF to safely enjoy lean protein packed with vitamins and minerals.
Storage
Store leftover fire-grilled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Consume refrigerated chicken within 3 to 4 days for optimal safety and taste. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container, where it can keep well for up to 4 months.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh citrus juices with bottled versions if fresh fruits are unavailable, but adjust the quantities to balance acidity and flavor. For a smokier taste, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the marinade or use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. Using a charcoal grill enhances the smoky char, while a gas grill provides precise temperature control; monitor the internal temperature to ensure juiciness. If short on time, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour instead of overnight, but your dish will gain more depth from longer marination.
Allergies
Your Fire-Grilled Chicken from El Pollo Loco contains soy sauce, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy. The citrus juices and zests of orange, lime, and lemon could cause issues for those with citrus allergies. Garlic and spices like cumin, paprika, oregano, and chili powder might also provoke allergic responses in some people.
Why this recipe?
Fire-Grilled Chicken from El Pollo Loco offers a unique smoky flavor that comes from marinating fresh chicken in a citrus-pepper blend before grilling over an open flame. The combination of tender, juicy meat and crispy charred edges appeals to those craving a wholesome yet bold taste experience. Making this recipe at home lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier, preservative-free meal tailored to Your preferences. Replicating this signature dish captures the essence of authentic Mexican flame-grilled cooking without needing to visit the restaurant.