Name: Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 58 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tbsp white vinegar; 2 garlic cloves; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp dried oregano; ¼ tsp ground pepper; ¼ Jalapeno; 1 cup pineapple juice; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp canola oil; 8 chicken thighs

This delightful chicken recipe brings the bold and vibrant flavors of El Pollo Loco right into your kitchen. Marinated overnight with a blend of spices and juices, and then cooked to perfection, this dish promises a juicy and irresistible experience.

Photos of Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

Some of the ingredients you might not commonly find in your pantry include pineapple juice, canola oil, and a jalapeno. Pineapple juice adds a unique sweetness and helps tenderize the meat, while canola oil is used for its neutral flavor and high smoke point. The jalapeno provides a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients for Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

white vinegar: Provides a tangy base that helps tenderize the chicken.

garlic cloves: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor.

kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the marinade.

dried oregano: Introduces a hint of earthiness to the dish.

ground pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

jalapeno: Brings a mild spice and depth to the marinade.

pineapple juice: Offers sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken.

lime juice: Infuses a fresh and zesty citrus note.

canola oil: Provides a neutral flavor and assists in cooking the chicken evenly.

chicken thighs: The main protein, known for their juicy and flavorful nature.

One reader, Keenan Mateo says:

This copycat El Pollo Loco chicken recipe is fantastic! The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, and the cooking method ensures it's juicy and tender. My family loved it, and it’s now a regular in our meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Keenan Mateo

Techniques Required for Making Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken

How to whisk: Whisking involves using a whisk or a fork to mix ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.

How to marinate: Marinating involves soaking the chicken in the prepared marinade for an extended period, usually overnight, to infuse it with flavor.

How to preheat the oven: Preheating the oven means setting it to the desired temperature (425 degrees F in this case) and allowing it to reach that temperature before cooking.

How to use a cast iron grill pan: Using a cast iron grill pan involves placing the chicken in the pan and cooking it in the oven or on the stovetop as directed.

How to use a bacon press or foil-wrapped brick: This involves placing a weighted object on top of the foil-covered chicken to press it down while cooking, ensuring even cooking and crispy skin.

How to flip chicken: Flipping chicken means turning it over to cook the other side evenly.

How To Make Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken

This chicken recipe is a perfect copy of El Pollo Loco’s chicken! It’s marinated with delicious seasonings and grilled to perfection.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Marinate Time: 8 minutes

Total: 58 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspwhite vinegar
2garlic cloves,minced
½tspkosher salt
½tspdried oregano
¼tspground pepper
¼jalapeno,seeded and minced very finely
1cuppineapple juice
2tbsplime juice
1tbspcanola oil
8chicken thighs,bone in and skin on

Instructions

Mix the vinegar, garlic, salt, oregano, ground pepper, jalapeno, pineapple juice, lime juice, oil into a large bowl.
Whisk well, then reserve ¼ cup of the marinade in a small tupperware.
Add the chicken to the bowl, then cover with plastic wrap.
Marinade overnight.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
In a cast iron grill pan, add the chicken skin side up.
Cook in the oven for 25 minutes.
Using potholders, place the pan to the stove top and heat at medium high heat.
Spray some foil with canola oil spray.
Place the foil sprayed side down over the top of the chicken.
Press the foil onto the meat with either a bacon press, a foil wrapped brick or a second heavy pan.
Spoon half the reserved marinade over the chicken while it cooks.
Cook for another 3 minutes, then remove the bacon press.
Flip the chicken, then add the rest of the reserved marinade on top.
Cook for 3 more minutes.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 461.50kcal
Fat: 33.86g
Saturated Fat: 8.87g
Trans Fat: 0.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.20g
Carbohydrates: 5.21g
Fiber: 0.16g
Sugar: 3.21g
Protein: 32.08g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 274.83mg
Calcium: 21.11mg
Potassium: 445.00mg
Iron: 1.46mg
Vitamin A: 44.78µg
Vitamin C: 5.03mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken

To ensure your chicken absorbs maximum flavor, make small slits in the skin and flesh before marinating. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Copycat Chicken Recipe

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the vinegar, garlic, salt, oregano, pepper, jalapeno, pineapple juice, lime juice, and oil the day before to save time.

Use a food processor: Mince the garlic and jalapeno quickly by using a food processor.

Marinate in a ziplock bag: Place the chicken and marinade in a ziplock bag for easy storage and cleanup.

Preheat the oven while prepping: Start preheating the oven as you prepare the chicken to save time.

Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without guessing by using a meat thermometer.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity level and can provide a slightly sweeter flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative.
dried oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning contains oregano and other herbs, providing a similar flavor profile.
ground pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat level but a slightly different flavor, which can still complement the dish.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor, making them a good alternative.
pineapple juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice provides a similar sweetness and acidity, though with a slightly different citrus flavor.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice has a similar acidity and can provide a comparable tangy flavor.
canola oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a similar neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks have a similar flavor and cooking time, making them a good substitute.

Best Way to Present Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken

Marinate the chicken: Ensure the chicken thighs are thoroughly coated in the marinade made from white vinegar, garlic, kosher salt, dried oregano, ground pepper, jalapeno, pineapple juice, lime juice, and canola oil. Let them soak overnight to absorb all the flavors.
Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Use a cast iron grill pan to ensure even cooking and a beautiful sear on the chicken.
Oven-roast the chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin side up in the grill pan and roast them in the oven for 25 minutes. This will render the fat and crisp up the skin.
Sear on the stovetop: Transfer the grill pan to the stovetop and heat it at medium-high. This step ensures a perfect sear and caramelization on the chicken.
Press and baste: Spray a piece of foil with canola oil spray and place it over the chicken. Use a bacon press, a foil-wrapped brick, or a second heavy pan to press the chicken down. Spoon half of the reserved marinade over the chicken while it cooks for an additional 3 minutes.
Flip and finish: Remove the bacon press, flip the chicken, and add the remaining marinade. Cook for another 3 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and infused with flavor.
Plating: Arrange the chicken thighs elegantly on a pristine white plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro and thin slices of lime for a pop of color and freshness.
Accompaniments: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
Final touch: Drizzle a light pineapple glaze over the chicken for an extra layer of sweetness and shine.

Essential Tools for Making Copycat Chicken Recipes

Large bowl: Used to mix the marinade ingredients and marinate the chicken.
Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining the marinade ingredients.
Plastic wrap: Covers the bowl to keep the chicken marinating overnight.
Tupperware: Stores the reserved marinade separately.
Cast iron grill pan: Provides even cooking and adds a nice char to the chicken.
Oven: Preheats to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to cook the chicken initially.
Potholders: Protects your hands when transferring the hot pan from the oven to the stovetop.
Stovetop: Used to finish cooking the chicken after it has been in the oven.
Canola oil spray: Prevents the foil from sticking to the chicken.
Foil: Covers the chicken to help press it down during the final cooking stages.
Bacon press: Weighs down the foil to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
Spoon: Used to drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken during the final cooking stages.
Heavy pan: An alternative to the bacon press for pressing down the chicken.
Knife: Minces the garlic and slices the jalapeno for the marinade.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Copycat Chicken

To store leftover chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When storing, make sure to include any leftover marinade or juices from the pan to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
To freeze the cooked chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen cooked chicken can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you want to freeze uncooked marinated chicken, place the marinated chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and contents.
Uncooked marinated chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To cook frozen marinated chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before following the cooking instructions in the recipe.

How To Reheat Leftover Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush the chicken with a little olive oil or butter to help keep it moist. Cover the chicken loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, this is a great way to reheat your leftover El Pollo Loco chicken. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, making sure the pieces aren't overlapping. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. You can also add a little butter or olive oil to the pan for extra flavor.
If you want to get creative, shred the leftover chicken and use it in a variety of dishes. Add it to a quesadilla, burrito, or salad for a quick and easy meal. You can also use it to make a delicious chicken soup or chicken pot pie.

Random Fact About Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that the use of pineapple juice in the marinade not only adds a sweet and tangy flavor but also contains enzymes that help tenderize the chicken.

Is Making Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken at Home Economical?

This recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thighs, pineapple juice, and lime juice are affordable and easily accessible. The use of basic pantry items such as vinegar, garlic, and dried oregano further enhances its budget-friendliness. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $12-$15.

Is This Copycat Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The copycat El Pollo Loco chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:

Chicken thighs are a good source of protein but are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast
The marinade contains pineapple juice and lime juice, which are natural sources of vitamins and antioxidants
The use of canola oil is a healthier choice compared to oils high in saturated fats
The recipe includes garlic and jalapeno, which offer potential health benefits like boosting immunity and metabolism

However, there are a few aspects that could be modified to make the dish even healthier:

Opt for skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breast to reduce the overall fat content
Reduce the amount of oil used in the marinade or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil
Increase the amount of herbs and spices, such as oregano and black pepper, to enhance flavor without adding extra calories
Serve the chicken with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables like roasted broccoli or a fresh salad to balance out the meal

By making these simple adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and healthier version of the copycat El Pollo Loco chicken recipe. Remember, moderation is key, and this dish can be part of a well-rounded, balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions.

Editor's Thoughts on This Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of El Pollo Loco's famous chicken with a delightful balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors. The pineapple juice and lime juice provide a refreshing citrusy note, while the jalapeno adds a subtle kick. Marinating the chicken overnight ensures deep flavor penetration. The cooking method, combining oven roasting and stovetop searing, results in juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy exterior. The use of a bacon press or heavy pan to press the chicken is a clever technique to achieve even cooking and a beautiful sear. Overall, it's a well-crafted and flavorful recipe.

Enhance Your Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Street Corn: Imagine the smoky, charred flavor of corn on the cob, slathered with a creamy lime and cilantro sauce, and sprinkled with cotija cheese. This side dish will transport you straight to a bustling Mexican street market, perfectly complementing the zesty and juicy El Pollo Loco chicken.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant bed of rice infused with the bright flavors of cilantro and lime. Each bite is a refreshing burst of citrusy goodness that pairs beautifully with the savory and tangy notes of the chicken. It's like a mini fiesta on your plate!

Mango Avocado Salad: A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring juicy mango chunks, creamy avocado, and crisp red onions. Tossed in a light lime vinaigrette, this side dish adds a tropical twist that harmonizes with the pineapple undertones of the chicken marinade.

Black Bean Soup: A hearty and comforting soup made with tender black beans, smoky chipotle peppers, and a hint of cumin. This rich and flavorful dish provides a warm contrast to the grilled chicken, making it a perfect companion for a cozy meal.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy, golden churros dusted with cinnamon sugar. Dip them into a luscious chocolate sauce for a delightful dessert that echoes the vibrant flavors of your main course. It's a fiesta for your taste buds!

Other Delicious Copycat Chicken Recipes to Try

Grilled Citrus Herb Chicken: Infuse your chicken with a burst of citrus and herbs for a zesty and aromatic main course. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a delightful dinner.

Pineapple Jalapeno Glazed Chicken: Combine the sweetness of pineapple with the spicy kick of jalapeno to create a tantalizing glaze that will elevate your chicken to new heights.

Lime Garlic Roasted Chicken: Roast your chicken with a tangy lime and garlic marinade that penetrates deep into the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.

Oven-Baked Spicy Chicken Thighs: Turn up the heat with these oven-baked chicken thighs marinated in a spicy blend of peppers and spices. Perfect for those who love a bit of a kick in their meal.

Tropical Grilled Chicken Skewers: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with these chicken skewers marinated in a blend of pineapple, lime, and coconut milk. Ideal for a fun and flavorful grilling session.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement This Copycat Chicken Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapenos: Stuffed Jalapenos are a delightful way to kick off your meal. These spicy treats are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and cheddar cheese, then wrapped in crispy bacon. The combination of the heat from the jalapenos and the richness of the cheese creates a perfect balance. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream to cool down the heat.

Mini Quesadillas: Mini Quesadillas are a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to your liking. Use small tortillas and fill them with a mix of shredded cheese, grilled chicken, and sautéed vegetables. Cook them until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for dipping.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center oozing out as you cut into a perfectly baked cake. This decadent treat combines the best of both worlds: a slightly crisp exterior and a gooey, luxurious filling. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent experience that will leave your guests in awe. The contrast of temperatures and textures makes this dessert a showstopper at any dinner party.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with the tangy and sweet flavors of a lemon meringue pie. The buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect base for a zesty lemon curd filling, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of tartness and sweetness, with a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth. This classic dessert is not only visually stunning but also a refreshing end to any meal, making it a favorite for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

Why trust this Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe:

This recipe captures the authentic flavors of El Pollo Loco's famous chicken. The combination of pineapple juice and lime juice creates a tangy and sweet marinade that tenderizes the chicken thighs perfectly. Using a cast iron grill pan ensures even cooking and a deliciously crispy skin. The unique method of pressing the chicken with a bacon press or foil-wrapped brick locks in the juices, making each bite succulent and flavorful. Trust this recipe for a mouthwatering experience that brings restaurant-quality chicken right to your home.

If you've tried this Copycat El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe, we'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken overnight to really let those flavors soak in. If you're short on time, try to marinate for at least 4 hours.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Do I need a cast iron grill pan?

While a cast iron grill pan is ideal for that nice sear and even cooking, you can use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Just make sure it can handle the heat.

Is there a substitute for pineapple juice?

If you don't have pineapple juice, you can use orange juice as a substitute. It will give a slightly different flavor but still delicious.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can definitely grill the chicken. Just preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.