What is Chicken Al Pastor ? Easy Recipe in 2024

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey? Today, we’re diving into the world of chicken al pastor, a beloved dish that combines the best of Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisines. In this post, we’ll explore the origins of this tasty creation, the key ingredients that make it shine, and how you can enjoy it at home or at your favorite restaurant.

Chicken Al Pastor

Course: MainCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced thin

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 pineapple, peeled and diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp achiote paste

• 2 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• In a large bowl, combine the achiote paste, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
• Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
• Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
• Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
• Finally, add the diced pineapple to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Serve the Chicken Al Pastor hot, accompanied by warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

What is Chicken Al Pastor?

Chicken al pastor is a popular Mexican dish that features marinated and spit-roasted chicken, similar to the cooking method used for traditional pork al pastor. The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of dried chiles, spices, and pineapple, resulting in a sweet, spicy, and tangy flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

The Origins of Al Pastor

To understand chicken al pastor, let’s take a brief look at the history of its pork counterpart. Al pastor, which translates to “shepherd style,” traces its roots back to the 19th century when Lebanese immigrants arrived in Mexico. They brought with them the technique of spit-roasting meat, known as shawarma. Mexican cooks adapted this method and incorporated local ingredients, such as dried chiles and pineapple, to create the iconic pork al pastor.

The Rise of Chicken Al Pastor

While pork al pastor remains a staple in Mexican cuisine, chicken al pastor has gained popularity in recent years. This adaptation offers a leaner, healthier alternative for those looking to enjoy the flavors of al pastor without the higher fat content of pork. Additionally, chicken al pastor caters to those who prefer poultry or have dietary restrictions that prevent them from consuming pork.

Key Ingredients in Chicken Al Pastor

To create an authentic chicken al pastor, several key ingredients come into play:

1. Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the preferred cut for their tender texture and ability to absorb the marinade.
2. Dried Chiles: A combination of guajillo and ancho chiles forms the base of the marinade, providing a rich, smoky flavor and a subtle heat.
3. Spices: Cumin, oregano, garlic, and black pepper are among the spices commonly used to enhance the flavor profile.
4. Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a sweet and tangy element to the dish, balancing out the spiciness of the chiles.
5. Achiote Paste: This vibrant red paste, made from annatto seeds, imparts a distinct color and earthy flavor to the chicken.

Preparing Chicken Al Pastor at Home

While traditionally cooked on a vertical spit, you can still enjoy chicken al pastor at home using a grill or oven. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

1. Blend the marinade ingredients (dried chiles, spices, pineapple, and achiote paste) until smooth.
2. Marinate the chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
3. Grill or roast the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
4. Slice the chicken thinly and serve on warm corn tortillas with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Enjoying Chicken Al Pastor at Restaurants

If you prefer to leave the cooking to the professionals, many Mexican restaurants offer chicken al pastor on their menus. Look for establishments that specialize in authentic Mexican cuisine or those that prominently feature al pastor dishes. Don’t hesitate to ask your server about the preparation method and ingredients used to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Pairing Suggestions:

Elevate your Chicken Al Pastor experience by pairing it with the perfect accompaniments. For a truly authentic Mexican feast, serve this dish with warm corn tortillas, allowing diners to create their own tacos. Offer a variety of fresh toppings, such as diced onions, chopped cilantro, and zesty salsa, to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

To complement the savory and slightly spicy notes of the Chicken Al Pastor, consider preparing a side of creamy guacamole or cooling sour cream. These condiments will provide a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the dish, while also adding a touch of indulgence to your meal.

For a well-rounded and satisfying spread, don’t forget to include a refreshing side salad or some grilled vegetables. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of cotija cheese will perfectly balance the richness of the main course.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives:

While Chicken Al Pastor is traditionally made with poultry, this recipe can easily be adapted to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets. For a plant-based version, simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or seitan, which will absorb the flavors of the marinade and provide a satisfying texture.

When using tofu, be sure to press out any excess water before slicing and marinating it. This will help the tofu hold its shape and allow the flavors to penetrate more effectively. For seitan, look for a product that is thinly sliced or cut it into thin strips yourself to mimic the texture of the chicken.

Leftovers and Meal Prep:

One of the best things about this Chicken Al Pastor recipe is that it makes fantastic leftovers. If you find yourself with extra portions, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making for even tastier meals in the days to come.

To reheat your leftovers, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can use the leftover Chicken Al Pastor in a variety of ways, such as filling for burritos, quesadillas, or enchiladas, or as a topping for nachos or salads.

If you’re a fan of meal prepping, this recipe is an excellent choice. Double or triple the ingredients to create a larger batch, and portion out the cooked Chicken Al Pastor into individual containers along with your favorite sides. This will give you a series of ready-to-eat meals that you can grab on the go or enjoy at home when time is short.

By embracing the convenience and versatility of leftovers and meal prep, you’ll be able to savor the delicious flavors of Chicken Al Pastor throughout the week while saving time and effort in the kitchen.

Conclusion

Chicken al pastor is a delightful fusion of flavors that showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of Mexican cuisine. Whether you choose to make it at home or seek it out at your local taqueria, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something bold, spicy, and undeniably delicious. So go ahead, take a bite, and let your taste buds embark on a flavorful adventure through the world of chicken al pastor.