El Pollo Loco Marinade Recipe
El Pollo Loco’s chicken has that deep citrusy kick, and it all comes down to the marinade.Orange juice is the key. It doesn’t just add sweetness—it helps break down the meat so the flavors get all the way inside.I always use fresh garlic instead of powder because it gives the marinade a stronger punch that really sticks to the chicken.Let it sit in the fridge for at least six hours. Anything less, and you’re not getting the full effect of that zesty, smoky combo.Grill over medium heat and let the edges char just a bit.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Orange Juice
- 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice
- 1/4 cup Lime Juice
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp White Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
Instructions
- Combine all the juices in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the minced garlic, vinegar, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika to the juice mix.
- Whisk the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is consistent.
- Divide the mixture, reserving a quarter for basting while cooking.
- Place your chicken in the larger part of the marinade and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
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