El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe (Copycat)

This is one of my favorite chicken recipes, although if you have never gone to an El Pollo Loco Restaurant, you might be wondering why the chicken appears yellow. Today, I will show you how to make an El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe (Copycat).

Last year, I had a chance to go to California for vacation, and my friend took me to an El Pollo Loco, knowing how much I love a good piece of chicken. I am pleased to say I had a great meal, and I put it on my list of recipes to prepare in my air fryer because everyone loves a good recipe for chicken.

Today, I researched what makes a copycat version of El Pollo chicken, found a copycat recipe, and decided to try it in my air fryer. The results speak for themselves; you get a fabulous and flavorful piece of chicken or a whole bird.

If you love copycat recipes try my recipe for Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Marsala Fettuccine, Copycat Instant Pot Panera Bread Chicken Noodle Soup, or Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken.

El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

El Pollo Loco’s chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen. Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus, garlic, and spices, this chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, charred exterior and juicy, tender meat inside.

The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, tangy taste that makes every bite incredibly flavorful. Served with a side of fresh salsa, rice, or warm tortillas, it makes for a satisfying and versatile meal.

Ingredients Needed For El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe (Copycat)

Here are the step-by-step instructions:

• Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for maximum flavor and juiciness, ensuring the marinade seeps into the meat for an authentic taste.
• Pineapple Juice: Adds a citrusy brightness to the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a tangy sweetness.
• Lime Juice: Provides a sharp, zesty contrast to the orange juice, enhancing the overall flavor profile with its tartness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a robust, savory depth to the marinade, complementing the other spices.
• Oregano: Adds a hint of herbal freshness, balancing out the rich and tangy notes of the marinade.
• White Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the marinade.
• Jalapeno Peppers: Provides a mild heat and a touch of freshness, giving the chicken a subtle spicy kick.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps to keep the marinade from sticking to the chicken and adds a slight richness to the flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken and helps to draw out the natural juices for a more succulent result.
• Black Pepper: Offers a mild, smoky flavor that contributes to the characteristic charred taste and vibrant color of the grilled chicken.

How To Make Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

Here are the simple instructions:

In a large bowl, mix the white vinegar, garlic, salt, oregano, black pepper, jalapeno peppers, pineapple juice, lime juice, and vegetable oil. Mix well.

Add your chicken to the marinade, cover, and place it into the refrigerator for about 8 to 10 hours. Set the air fryer to 350 degrees F, for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, flip the chicken and air fry for another 15-25 minutes.

Note: Your chicken’s actual time will depend on the air fryer you own and how large your chicken is. Always check with a meat thermometer until the temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe Tips

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors penetrate deeply for a more authentic taste.
• Baste with Marinade: Brush the chicken with the marinade while grilling to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeno or other spices in the marinade according to your heat preference.

El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe Faqs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, typically requiring a bit longer than boneless pieces.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and grill it when you’re ready. The flavors will be even more intense if the chicken marinates overnight.

Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of on the air fryer? Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

What can I serve with El Pollo Loco chicken? This chicken pairs wonderfully with Mexican-inspired sides such as cilantro lime rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad. It also goes well with traditional sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER SPATCHCOCK CHICKEN
• AIR FRYER, ROTISSERIE ROASTED CHICKEN (WHOLE CHICKEN)
• NINJA FOODI, AIR FRYER. ROTISSERIE ROASTED CHICKEN (WHOLE CHICKEN)

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