Pollo Campero's Campero Whole Chicken features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a blend of signature herbs and spices, oven-roasted to golden perfection with crispy skin, delivering a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Equipments
- Oven
- Roasting pan
- Wire rack
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Using a whole chicken weighing between 3-4 pounds ensures even cooking and optimal tenderness. The combination of kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, and other dried herbs and spices creates the signature Pollo Campero flavor profile you want to achieve. Make sure to use fresh lemon juice and high-quality olive oil to enhance the marinade's depth and moisture. Measuring spices accurately maintains the balance between savory and spicy notes, especially with ingredients like cayenne pepper and chili powder. This Campero Whole Chicken recipe from Pollo Campero copycat menu delivers tender, juicy meat with crispy, golden skin for an authentic taste experience.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, cumin, coriander, thyme, chili powder, sugar, and cayenne pepper.
- Add olive oil and lemon juice to the spice mix; stir to form a marinade paste.
- Rub marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
- Let marinated chicken rest for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator).
- Place a wire rack in the roasting pan and set the marinated chicken breast side up on the rack.
- Roast in preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Baste chicken with pan juices using a basting brush.
- Continue roasting for another 30–45 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest 10–15 minutes on a cutting board.
- Carve chicken with chef's knife and serve.
Substitution
Pollo Campero's Campero Whole Chicken is a flavorful copycat recipe that captures the brand's signature blend of herbs and spices for a juicy, oven-roasted bird. If you don't have kosher salt on hand, you can substitute with sea salt or table salt, but adjust the quantity slightly as table salt is more concentrated. Feel free to swap olive oil with avocado oil or vegetable oil to achieve a similar roasting effect. When fresh lemon juice is unavailable, bottled lemon juice can be used without significantly altering the flavor profile. Ensure you use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165degF, which guarantees safety and optimal juiciness for your chicken.
Tips
Always pat your chicken dry before applying the marinade to ensure the seasoning adheres properly and the skin crisps up in the oven. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to check for an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC), guaranteeing the chicken is cooked safely and remains juicy. Resting the roasted chicken for 10-15 minutes on a cutting board allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dryness when carved. When rubbing the marinade, be sure to get under the skin and inside the cavity to fully infuse your Campero Whole Chicken with the signature blend of herbs and spices.
Nutritions
Pollo Campero's Campero Whole Chicken offers a nutrient-rich meal packed with high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth. The blend of herbs and spices contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, enhancing overall health benefits. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C. Your meal combines flavor and nutrition, making it a balanced option for maintaining a healthy diet.
Storage
Store leftover Pollo Campero's Campero Whole Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacteria growth. Use within 3-4 days to enjoy the tender, juicy flavors at their best. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in tightly wrapped foil or freezer-safe bags, ensuring your meal stays flavorful for up to 3 months.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika to add a deeper, smoky flavor to the Campero Whole Chicken. For an alternative cooking process, try spatchcocking the chicken by removing the backbone and flattening it, which reduces cooking time and promotes even roasting. Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade for enhanced aroma and taste. Brining the chicken for several hours before applying the marinade can help retain moisture, ensuring a more tender result.
Allergies
Pollo Campero's Campero Whole Chicken contains common allergens such as garlic powder and onion powder, which may trigger sensitivities in certain individuals. The blend of spices, including chili powder and cayenne pepper, can cause reactions for those with spice allergies or intolerances. You should always check for specific ingredient sensitivities and consult a healthcare professional if you have known food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Campero Whole Chicken menu from Pollo Campero restaurant offers a unique blend of Latin spices and slow-cooked tenderness, delivering a flavorful and juicy eating experience. Its perfectly crispy skin and rich seasoning set it apart from typical rotisserie chickens, making it a popular choice among food lovers seeking authentic, savory meals. You'll appreciate the balance of smoky, garlicky, and slightly sweet notes that define this signature dish. Trying a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this delicious culinary tradition in your own kitchen, saving money while savoring every bite.