Go Back
–+ servings
Pollo Tropical Chicken Breast Recipe

Pollo Tropical Chicken Breast Recipe

Tina Cooper
If you’ve stumbled upon this blog, you’re likely in search of something flavorful, nutritious, and, dare I say, a little tropical? Let me take you on a culinary journey as we delve into the delightful world of Pollo Tropical Chicken Breast. 
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting in The Fridge: 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 240 kcal

Equipment

  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 cup tropical pineapple juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breasts
  • ⅓ cup zesty lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh garlic crushed into a paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Let’s jump into the steps to prepare this delightful dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  • In a bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice, honey, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, sea salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well blended. The tropical aroma fills the air as the ingredients meld together.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  • Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

  • Get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn until they’re covered with ash. This ensures a nice, even cooking surface.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should have nice grill marks and reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

  • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  • Slice the chicken, garnish it with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve it with your favorite sides. Whether you choose rice, salad, or grilled veggies, this chicken will be the star of your meal.

Notes

Here are five savvy tips to elevate your Pollo Tropical Chicken Breast experience:
  • Use Fresh Juice: While bottled juices might be convenient, nothing matches the flavor of freshly squeezed citrus. You’ll taste the difference.
  • Marinate Longer for Best Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight. This maximizes the infusion of flavors.
  • Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. This guarantees safety while keeping the chicken juicy.
  • Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting time post-grill. This little pause makes all the difference in texture.
  • Experiment with Sides: Pair the chicken with different sides to keep it interesting. Try black beans, tropical fruit salad, or even a light quinoa salad.

Nutrition

Calories: 240kcal
Keyword Pollo Tropical Chicken Breast Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!