Chicken Al Pastor Recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional pork version, and I can’t wait to share my favorite way to make it. Growing up, I had the chance to savor the rich, vibrant flavors of Al Pastor at local taco stands. The combination of marinated chicken, fresh pineapple, and zesty toppings always left me wanting more. Now, I’m excited to bring this beloved dish to your kitchen!
What is Chicken Al Pastor?
Chicken Al Pastor is a Mexican dish inspired by Lebanese shawarma. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of spices, chilies, and pineapple, then grilled or roasted to perfection. The result is a flavorful, juicy chicken that is perfect for tacos, burritos, or even served over rice.
Ingredients for Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
To make a delicious Chicken Al Pastor, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (for grilling)
For Serving:
How to Make Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
Marinating the chicken is the key to infusing it with flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Grilling the Chicken
Grilling gives the chicken a smoky flavor that complements the marinade beautifully. Here’s how I grill my Chicken Al Pastor:
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, preheat it on the stove over medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Add Pineapple: In the last few minutes of grilling, add the diced pineapple to the grill. Grill until caramelized, about 3-4 minutes.
Resting the Chicken
After grilling, it’s important to let the chicken rest. This helps keep it juicy. I usually let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Assembling Your Chicken Al Pastor Tacos
Now comes the fun part assembling the tacos! Here’s how I do it:
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place a generous amount of grilled chicken on each tortilla. Top with grilled pineapple, diced onion, and fresh cilantro.
- Finish with Lime and Salsa: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos and add your favorite salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Tips for the Best Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years to make the best Chicken Al Pastor:
- Use Chicken Thighs: They are more flavorful and tender compared to chicken breasts.
- Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Don’t Skip the Pineapple: It adds sweetness and balances the spices beautifully.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add avocado, radishes, or even pickled onions for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Al Pastor is versatile, and you can serve it in many ways. Here are some ideas:
- Tacos: The classic way to enjoy Chicken Al Pastor.
- Burritos: Wrap everything in a large tortilla with rice and beans.
- Rice Bowls: Serve the chicken over rice with your favorite toppings.
- Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chicken, cheese, and toppings for a fun snack.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which I hope you do), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional information per serving (2 tacos):
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
Why You’ll Love Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
Chicken Al Pastor is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of spices, the sweetness of pineapple, and the freshness of the toppings create a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Al Pastor Recipe as much as I do. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a favorite in my household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.