Description
Infused with bold, smoky flavors, Asado Chicken Breasts are marinated in a savory blend of spices, then grilled or baked to perfection. This dish is inspired by traditional Latin American asado cooking and is perfect when paired with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Asado Chicken Breasts:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and honey or agave syrup (if using). This marinade has a balance of citrusy tang, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness that enhances the flavor of the chicken.
If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add red pepper flakes to the marinade to increase the heat.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts, then place them in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each breast is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 hour. Marinating for a longer time will allow the chicken to absorb more flavor, but even 30 minutes will yield great results.
3. Preheat the Grill or Oven
If you’re grilling the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
For roasting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the chicken from sticking during baking.
4. Cook the Chicken
Once the grill or oven is ready, it’s time to cook the chicken:
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Grilling: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the preheated grill, spacing them out to allow for even cooking. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping it halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should develop nice grill marks and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re using a grill pan, the cooking time will be similar.
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Roasting: If you’re roasting the chicken, place the marinated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest the Chicken
After cooking, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. Resting the chicken helps redistribute the juices, ensuring that the chicken remains moist and tender.
6. Slice and Serve
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or serve it whole, depending on your preference. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. Serve the Asado Chicken Breasts with your favorite sides, such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling) or 30-35 minutes (roasting)
Nutrition
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 6-8g
- Protein: 45g