The Two Piece Leg and Thigh Combo from El Pollo Loco features juicy, marinated chicken leg and thigh pieces, grilled to perfection with smoky char marks, served with a side of tangy salsa for a flavorful, tender, and satisfying meal.
Equipments
- Grill
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Brush (for marinade)
- Serving plate/tray
- Small bowl (for salsa)
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 chicken legs
- 2 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- For the salsa:
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt to taste
Fresh lime juice and orange juice are key to achieving the authentic tangy flavor in the marinade, enhancing the tender texture of the chicken legs and thighs. Using fresh garlic instead of powder provides a richer and more robust taste, which complements the smoky char from grilling. The combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper creates a balanced spice profile that mimics El Pollo Loco's signature seasoning blend. When preparing the salsa, using ripe tomatoes and finely chopped cilantro adds freshness that perfectly complements the savory chicken. Your homemade Two Piece Leg and Thigh Combo from El Pollo Loco delivers the same flavorful, satisfying meal, perfect for recreating at home.
Instructions
- Prepare marinade in a mixing bowl: combine olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Coat chicken legs and thighs in marinade; cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush grill grates with oil.
- Place marinated chicken legs and thighs on grill.
- Grill chicken, turning occasionally with tongs, until done (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C), about 25-30 minutes.
- While chicken cooks, prepare salsa: dice tomatoes, finely chop cilantro, onion, and jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat).
- Combine tomatoes, cilantro, onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a small bowl; add salt to taste and mix.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest 5 minutes.
- Serve chicken on a plate or tray with a side of salsa.
Substitution
The Two Piece Leg and Thigh Combo from El Pollo Loco copycat menu offers tender, marinated chicken grilled with smoky char marks, paired with a zesty homemade salsa. If fresh chicken legs or thighs are unavailable, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying out the meat. A gas grill or stovetop grill pan works well if an outdoor grill is unavailable, ensuring the smoky flavor is maintained. You can prepare the salsa in advance to allow flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of your meal. Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is safely cooked to an internal temperature of 165degF for optimal juiciness.
Tips
Ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high and the grates are well-oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of your chicken reaches 165degF (74degC) to guarantee it's fully cooked and safe to eat. Let your grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor. When making the salsa, removing the jalapeno seeds can help control the spice level to suit your preference.
Nutritions
The Two Piece Leg and Thigh Combo from El Pollo Loco is rich in protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle repair and growth. The marinade, made with olive oil, lime juice, and spices, adds healthy fats and antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids, boosting immune health. Grilling the chicken preserves more nutrients compared to frying, while the fresh salsa offers fiber, vitamins A and C, and beneficial phytochemicals. Your meal balances macronutrients with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying dining experience.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken leg and thigh pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Keep the tangy salsa in a separate, sealed container to prevent sogginess and preserve its vibrant flavors. Your grilled meal will stay safe to eat for up to 3-4 days when properly refrigerated.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken legs and thighs with bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts for a leaner option while maintaining juiciness through marinating. Try adding a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade to enhance tenderization and introduce a subtle sweetness. For smoky flavor without grilling, use a cast-iron skillet and finish in a preheated oven at 400degF (204degC) until chicken reaches 165degF internal temperature. Swap the traditional tomato salsa for a mango and avocado salsa to elevate freshness and provide a creamy contrast to the spicy chicken.
Allergies
The Two Piece Leg and Thigh Combo from El Pollo Loco contains ingredients such as garlic, chili powder, and jalapeno pepper, which may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. The presence of spices like cumin and paprika might also cause reactions for those with specific spice intolerances. If you are allergic to any of these components, it's important to avoid this dish or consult with the restaurant about ingredient substitutions.
Why this recipe?
The Two Piece Leg and Thigh Combo from El Pollo Loco is favored for its perfectly marinated chicken, delivering a crispy, flavorful outer layer while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. This combo showcases a distinctive blend of citrus and Mexican spices that enhances the natural chicken flavor, making it a satisfying choice for many customers. Replicating this recipe allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, capturing the essence of El Pollo Loco's unique taste. Your efforts to make the copycat dish can bring the same bold, savory experience to your dining table without the wait.