Description

Bring bold, citrusy flair to your dinner table with this Homemade El Pollo Loco Copycat recipe. It delivers the juicy, smoky grilled chicken you crave with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Perfect for summer grilling, easy dinner prep, or weekly meal planning, this dish captures the iconic flavor of the beloved restaurant favorite. Whether you’re after quick dinner ideas, flavorful food ideas for a party, or simply love a good grilled chicken, this easy recipe hits all the right notes. With hints of garlic, lime, and herbs, each bite promises to be satisfying and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Scale

3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

1/3 cup fresh lime juice

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

1/4 cup white vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

6 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp smoked paprika

2 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat grill to medium-high. Clean and oil the grates.
Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill 5–7 minutes per side, until internal temp hits 165°F.
Rest chicken 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and lime. Serve warm.