Craving a taste of Latin America? Indulge in the flavors of Pollo a la Plancha, a delicious grilled chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish features juicy, marinated chicken breasts cooked to perfection on a hot griddle, offering a delightful combination of citrusy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Whether served with rice and black beans or a fresh salad, Pollo a la Plancha is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients List
Marinade Ingredients
- 6 medium cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
- Kosher salt
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 10 ounces; 285g each) or 8 chicken cutlets
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) neutral oil such as canola or vegetable, plus more as needed
- 1 large white or yellow onion (about 3/4 pound; 340g), sliced crosswise into 1/4 inch thick rings
- Cooked long-grain rice and black beans, for serving
- Picked cilantro leaves, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
Required Kitchen Tools
To make Pollo a la Plancha, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Griddle or Grill Pan: To cook the chicken and achieve those beautiful char marks.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken and onions on the griddle.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the onions and chicken.
- Cutting Board: To prep your ingredients safely.
Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful cooking experience.
Preparing the Marinade and Chicken
Creating a flavorful marinade is key to making delicious Pollo a la Plancha. This marinade infuses the chicken with bright citrus flavors and a hint of spice, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
Mixing the Marinade
- Prepare the Garlic: Begin by finely mincing the garlic cloves. You want them to be small enough to evenly distribute throughout the marinade.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic with freshly squeezed orange juice and lime juice. Add ground cumin, dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper, and ground allspice if using. Stir to mix the ingredients well.
- Season with Salt: Add kosher salt to taste, ensuring that the marinade is well-seasoned. This will help enhance the flavors of the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. For chicken cutlets, you can use them as they are.
- Marinate: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.
Preparing the Onions
- Slice the Onions: While the chicken marinates, slice the onion into 1/4 inch thick rings. This thickness is perfect for grilling, as it allows the onions to become tender and caramelized without falling apart.
Cooking the Chicken and Onions
Now that the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook it to perfection along with the onions. Using a griddle or grill pan will help achieve those classic char marks and smoky flavors.
Heating the Griddle
- Preheat: Heat a griddle or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it to be hot enough to sear the chicken and onions quickly, locking in the flavors.
- Add Oil: Once the griddle is hot, add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil. Use a brush or paper towel to spread the oil evenly, ensuring a thin coating across the surface.
Cooking the Chicken
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot griddle. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Cooking the Onions
- Grill the Onions: While the chicken rests, add the sliced onions to the griddle. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You may need to add a little more oil if the griddle becomes dry.
Serving the Pollo a la Plancha
With the chicken and onions perfectly cooked, it’s time to assemble and serve this delicious dish. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and caramelized onions makes for a satisfying meal, especially when paired with traditional sides.
Plating the Dish
- Prepare the Plates: Start by arranging a serving of cooked long-grain rice and black beans on each plate. These classic sides complement the flavors of the Pollo a la Plancha perfectly.
- Add the Chicken and Onions: Place a grilled chicken breast or a couple of chicken cutlets on each plate. Top the chicken with a generous portion of grilled onions, letting them drape over the meat for a rustic presentation.
Garnishing and Finishing Touches
- Cilantro and Lime: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the chicken and onions for a burst of freshness. Add a lime wedge on the side of each plate, which can be squeezed over the dish for an extra citrusy kick.
- Optional Toppings: If you like, you can add a drizzle of the remaining marinade (boiled and reduced for safety) or a light dusting of ground cumin for an additional layer of flavor.
Enjoying the Meal
Pollo a la Plancha is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, with its vibrant flavors and juicy texture. The dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides, such as a simple green salad or warm tortillas. It’s a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Conclusion
Pollo a la Plancha is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the taste of Latin American cuisine to your table. With its easy preparation and delicious results, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of citrusy marinade, tender chicken, and sweet grilled onions creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. So, fire up your griddle, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and savoring Pollo a la Plancha at home.