Let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to enjoy chicken: pollo a la plancha! This grilled chicken recipe is not just simple; it’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. I remember the first time I grilled chicken on a warm summer evening, the smell wafting through the air, and my family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It’s moments like these that make cooking so special. You don’t need a culinary degree to whip this up—just a few ingredients and a grill! Trust me, once you try this easy pollo a la plancha recipe, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s that good!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
These ingredients are super simple but pack a flavorful punch! I love using smoked paprika for that extra depth of flavor, but feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can even add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty twist if you’re feeling adventurous! Just make sure your chicken breasts are nice and fresh, and you’re all set for a delicious meal.
How to Prepare the Pollo a la Plancha Recipe
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to create the most delicious pollo a la plancha! This is where the magic happens, and trust me, it couldn’t be easier. Follow along, and soon you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely charred flavor, so don’t skip it!
- While the grill is heating up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. It should smell amazing!
- Next, take your chicken breasts and coat them evenly with the oil and spice mixture. I like to really rub it in, ensuring every inch of chicken is covered with flavor.
- Once your grill is hot and ready, place the chicken breasts directly on it. You should hear that satisfying sizzle as they hit the grill!
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it—this helps develop those grill marks. Then, flip them over and cook for another 6-7 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked, so keep an eye on it!
- When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy), remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Finally, slice up your beautifully grilled chicken and serve it up with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
While I can’t provide exact nutritional values since they can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, here’s a general idea of what to expect per serving of this pollo a la plancha. Each chicken breast typically contains around 250 calories, 10g of fat, 36g of protein, and 0g of carbohydrates. It’s a healthy and satisfying option for any meal! Just remember to check your ingredients for the most accurate information.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Healthy option packed with protein and low in fat.
- Perfect for meal prep; grill a batch for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Versatile dish—pair it with salads, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
- Impressive enough to serve at gatherings yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Trust me, once you experience the deliciousness of this pollo a la plancha, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Tips for Success
Want to nail your pollo a la plancha every time? Here are my top tips to ensure perfect results! First, consider marinating the chicken for at least an hour, or even overnight, to really amp up the flavor—trust me, it makes a world of difference! When grilling, make sure the grill is preheated properly; a hot grill gives you those beautiful grill marks and seals in the juices. Also, don’t forget to use a meat thermometer! It’s the best way to ensure your chicken reaches that safe internal temperature of 165°F. Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before slicing. This step keeps it juicy and oh-so-tender!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your pollo a la plancha! Try adding some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the marinade for a burst of freshness. A dash of cumin or chili powder can bring a lovely warmth that’s perfect for spice lovers. You could even swap out the smoked paprika for a zesty lemon pepper seasoning if that tickles your taste buds! And don’t forget about sides—serve it alongside a refreshing mango salsa or a simple avocado salad to elevate your meal even more. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious pollo a la plancha ready, let’s talk about what to serve it with! I love pairing it with a light, crisp salad—something with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette really complements the chicken beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, fluffy cilantro-lime rice is a fantastic choice that adds a nice touch of flavor. Roasted or grilled vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, add color and nutrition to your plate. You can even serve it with a side of black beans for a protein-packed meal. Enjoy mixing and matching your sides to create the perfect dinner experience!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover pollo a la plancha is super easy! Just place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, I recommend using the microwave in short intervals or warming it up in a skillet over low heat so it stays juicy and doesn’t dry out. You’ll love how delicious it tastes even as leftovers!
Pollo a la Plancha Recipe: 7 Tips for Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and flavorful grilled chicken recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place the chicken on the grill.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
- Marinate the chicken for a few hours for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: pollo a la plancha recipe, grilled chicken, easy chicken recipe
