Easy Al Pastor Chicken in 2024

Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey? Today, we’re diving into the world of al pastor chicken, a mouthwatering dish that combines the best of Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisines. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and learn how to create this delectable meal in your own kitchen.

What is Al Pastor Chicken?

Al pastor chicken is a fusion dish that draws inspiration from the traditional Mexican al pastor beef and the shawarma cooking technique from the Middle East. The result is a succulent, marinated chicken that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

The key to al pastor chicken lies in the marinade. A blend of dried chiles, spices, and pineapple juice creates a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and depth. The chicken is typically marinated for several hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.

Discover the Delicious World of Al Pastor Chicken

Course: MainCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

16

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 cup white vinegar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp achiote paste

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 onion, sliced

• 1 pineapple, sliced

Directions

• In a large bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, achiote paste, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
• Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid.
• Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• While the chicken is grilling, place the sliced onion and pineapple on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop nice grill marks and are slightly softened.
• Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Serve the sliced Al Pastor Chicken with the grilled onions and pineapple, along with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges on the side.

The History Behind Al Pastor

To fully appreciate al pastor chicken, it’s essential to understand its roots. The al pastor cooking method originated in Mexico, where Lebanese immigrants introduced the vertical spit-grilling technique used for shawarma. Mexican cooks adapted this method, using beef instead of lamb and incorporating local ingredients like dried chiles and pineapple.

Over time, the al pastor technique spread throughout Mexico, becoming a beloved street food staple. The combination of tender, marinated meat and the smoky flavor from the grill made it an instant hit.

Ingredients for the Perfect Al Pastor Chicken

To create an authentic al pastor chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Dried guajillo chiles
• Achiote paste
• Garlic
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Pineapple juice
• White vinegar
• Salt and pepper

These ingredients work together to create a complex, well-balanced marinade that will elevate your chicken to new heights.

Marinating the Chicken

The marination process is crucial for achieving the signature flavor of al pastor chicken. Start by soaking the dried guajillo chiles in hot water until they’re soft. Then, remove the stems and seeds before blending them with the achiote paste, garlic, cumin, oregano, pineapple juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Once your marinade is ready, place the chicken thighs in a large, non-reactive bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Grilling the Al Pastor Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

As the chicken cooks, baste it with any remaining marinade to keep it moist and flavorful. If you want to achieve an authentic al pastor look, you can stack the chicken on a vertical spit and shave off thin slices as it cooks. However, grilling the chicken pieces individually will still yield delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

Al pastor chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Tacos: Slice the chicken and serve it in warm corn tortillas with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
2. Burrito bowls: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, black beans, and your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
3. Salads: Top a fresh green salad with sliced al pastor chicken for a protein-packed, flavorful meal.
4. Quesadillas: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for cheesy quesadillas.

No matter how you choose to serve it, al pastor chicken is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Conclusion

Al pastor chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that showcases the best of Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisines. By following this guide, you can create an authentic, mouthwatering dish that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the incredible flavors of al pastor chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!