Homemade Pollo Loco: A Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home

Transform your kitchen into a culinary haven with this irresistible Homemade Pollo Loco recipe. Featuring juicy, spice-marinated grilled chicken paired with rich, creamy rice, this dish promises bold flavors that rival any restaurant meal—all made from the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless and skinless)
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Cook the Creamy Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice reaches a creamy consistency.
4. Assemble and Serve: Serve the grilled chicken atop the creamy rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness, if desired.