12 Authentic Pollo Loco Copycat Recipes
Did you know that over 50 million people crave the delicious flavors of Pollo Loco each year? If you’re one of them and want to recreate that mouthwatering experience at home, you’re in for a treat! In this blog, we’ll unveil 12 authentic Pollo Loco copycat recipes that bring the zest and spice of your favorite chicken dishes right to your kitchen, from Spicy Citrus Grilled Pollo Loco to Savory Pollo Loco Salad. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightful recipes!
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Spicy Citrus Grilled Pollo Loco
This Spicy Citrus Grilled Pollo Loco recipe is a vibrant blend of zesty citrus and fiery spices that will awaken your taste buds and elevate your grilling game.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for best flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place on the grill. Discard the leftover marinade.
5. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Tips:
- For added flavor, try marinating overnight if possible.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos
This Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos recipe is a flavor-packed delight, combining smoky spices with tender chicken for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped chipotle peppers, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them well with the spice mixture; marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
5. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing shredded chicken on each tortilla, then top with shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding sliced avocados or mango salsa as toppings.
- Adjust the number of chipotle peppers depending on your spice preference.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for added freshness.
Citrus-Marinated Roast Chicken
This Citrus-Marinated Roast Chicken is special for its vibrant blend of tangy citrus flavors that infuse the meat, creating a juicy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 orange, sliced (for garnishing)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnishing)
- 1 lime, sliced (for garnishing)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and paprika to make the marinade.
2. Place the whole chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Place the chicken on a roasting pan, breast side up, and arrange the sliced citrus fruits around it.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving, allowing juices to redistribute.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding additional herbs such as thyme or parsley to the marinade.
- Be sure to monitor the chicken during roasting, as cooking times may vary based on oven performance and chicken size.
- Leftover chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a flavorful addition to soups.
Zesty Pollo Loco Burrito Bowl
This Zesty Pollo Loco Burrito Bowl brings vibrant flavors of lime, cilantro, and seasoned chicken together for a refreshing, delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, black beans, corn, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
6. Assemble the burrito bowl by layering the rice mixture, sliced chicken, diced avocado, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese on top.
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing it.
- Feel free to customize your bowl by adding your favorite toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.
- This bowl can be easily made vegetarian by substituting chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu.
Herbed Cilantro-Lime Pollo
This Herbed Cilantro-Lime Pollo is a vibrant dish bursting with zesty lime and fresh cilantro flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
5. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Serve with lime wedges and a side of rice or salad.
- Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique twist.
Fiery Fire-Grilled Chicken Wings
These Fiery Fire-Grilled Chicken Wings are special for their bold blend of spicy and smoky flavors that make them irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and honey to create a marinade.
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
4. Place the marinated wings on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely charred.
5. Ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F before removing them from the grill.
6. Let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the juices to settle.
Tips:
- For additional heat, add more cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Serve with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the spice.
- Grill in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the grill.
Creamy Pollo Loco Enchiladas
This Creamy Pollo Loco Enchiladas recipe combines the rich flavors of tender chicken and a velvety sauce for a truly mouth-watering experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced onions
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder until well mixed.
3. Warm the corn tortillas slightly to make them pliable, then spoon a portion of the chicken mixture into each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
4. In a greased baking dish, place the rolled enchiladas seam side down.
5. In a separate bowl, stir together the chicken broth and remaining sour cream mixture, then pour it evenly over the enchiladas.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and diced onions over the top of the enchiladas.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking.
- Swap out chicken for shredded beef or black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or jalapeños for a kick.
Tangy BBQ Pollo Loco Sliders
This Tangy BBQ Pollo Loco Sliders recipe features mouthwatering chicken infused with tangy BBQ flavors, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup tangy BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3. While the chicken cooks, prepare the coleslaw by combining coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
4. Slice the slider buns in half and toast them lightly in the skillet or oven.
5. Once chicken is done and buns are toasted, assemble sliders by placing a generous amount of the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a spoonful of coleslaw, and then the top half of the bun.
6. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture.
- Make the coleslaw in advance to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with pickle slices for an added crunch.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
Marinated Pollo Loco Skewers
This Marinated Pollo Loco Skewers recipe bursts with vibrant flavors from zesty citrus, smoky spices, and fresh herbs, making it a standout choice for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, mixing well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, alternating with cilantro for added flavor.
5. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For added spice, include diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce in the marinade.
- Serve with fresh salsa and avocado for a complete meal.
- Be sure to soak the wooden skewers beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Sizzling Pollo Loco Fajitas
These Sizzling Pollo Loco Fajitas are special for their vibrant mix of spices and fresh ingredients that create an unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced bell pepper and red onion to the skillet, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Warm the flour tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
5. Serve the sizzling chicken and vegetables in warm tortillas, topped with shredded cheese, avocado slices, salsa, and fresh cilantro.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for an hour or overnight if possible.
- Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños to the fajitas.
- Serve with lime wedges for an added zesty flavor.
Savory Pollo Loco Salad
This Savory Pollo Loco Salad combines vibrant flavors of seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing to create a delightful, nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels, cooked
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens.
Tips:
- For added crunch, consider topping the salad with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or avocado.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
Cheesy Pollo Loco Quesadillas
These Cheesy Pollo Loco Quesadillas are a delightful fusion of savory chicken, melty cheese, and a burst of zesty flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for serving)
- 1/4 cup salsa (for serving)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, taco seasoning, bell peppers, red onion, and half of the shredded cheese.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, and top half of it with the chicken mixture and a portion of the remaining cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
5. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges.
7. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
8. Serve warm with sour cream, salsa, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like jalapeños for added heat or corn for sweetness.
- Swap the tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different taste and texture.
