Sizzling Oven Roasted Chicken Al Pastor Recipe for Taco Night

Spicy and aromatic chicken al pastor that sizzles with Mexican-inspired flavors will revolutionize your dinner routine.

Marinated chunks of tender meat promise an explosion of taste in every bite.

Pineapple and robust spices create a complex profile that dances across your palate.

Traditional techniques meet modern cooking approaches in this remarkable dish.

Authentic ingredients blend seamlessly to produce a meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Succulent meat caramelizes beautifully under high heat, developing incredible depth of character.

Craving a restaurant-quality experience without leaving home?

You can master this incredible recipe with confidence.

Best Sides For Chicken Al Pastor

• Pair Zesty Mexican Lager: Grab a crisp cerveza like Modelo Especial or Pacifico to complement the tangy and spicy al pastor flavors, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
• Serve Fresh Pineapple Salsa: Create a bright side dish with diced fresh pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice that echoes the marinade's tropical notes and adds vibrant freshness.
• Craft Creamy Cilantro-Lime Rice: Whip up a simple rice side with chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and a touch of butter to balance the spicy and smoky chicken flavors.
• Mix Refreshing Agua Fresca: Blend watermelon or pineapple with water and a hint of sugar for a cool, light drink that perfectly matches the al pastor's bold profile.

Chicken Al Pastor Roasting Options

• Low-Carb Adaptation: Replace chicken thighs with skinless chicken breasts and serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice, reducing overall carbohydrate content.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using the same marinade and roasting method to maintain authentic al pastor flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all marinade ingredients are certified gluten-free and serve with corn tortillas instead of wheat-based alternatives.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Reduce chipotle peppers for a milder version or add extra peppers for those seeking intense heat, allowing customization based on personal preference.

FAQs

• What makes Al Pastor chicken different from regular roasted chicken?

Al Pastor chicken features a unique marinade with pineapple and Mexican-inspired spices like chipotle and smoked paprika, creating a tangy, spicy flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional roasted chicken.

• Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for a long time?

While a minimum of 1 hour is recommended, marinating overnight allows the chicken to absorb more flavor and become more tender, resulting in a more delicious dish.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy. If using breasts, reduce cooking time to prevent drying out and ensure they reach the correct internal temperature.

• How spicy is this Al Pastor chicken?

The spice level depends on the chipotle peppers used. For a milder version, use fewer peppers or remove the seeds. For more heat, add extra chipotle peppers or include some of the seeds in the marinade.

Oven Roasted Chicken Al Pastor That Brings The Heat

• Blast Flavor in Minutes: Quick and Easy Cooking
• Speedy Preparation: Whip up this delicious chicken dish in under an hour with minimal cooking skills needed.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Transform the roasted chicken into tacos, salads, rice bowls, or standalone protein for multiple meal options.
• Marinate Magic: Overnight soaking allows deep flavor penetration, creating tender and incredibly tasty chicken without complicated techniques.
• Healthy Weeknight Winner: Low-effort recipe packed with protein and vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors, perfect for busy families seeking nutritious meals.

What’s Roasted in Chicken Al Pastor

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs: Tender meat that absorbs marinade flavors, best when bone-in and skinless for rich taste and juicy texture.

• Pineapple, Chipotle Peppers: Provide sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor profile that tenderizes the chicken and adds depth.

• Olive Oil, Vinegar: Help distribute spices and create smooth marinade consistency for even coating.
• Cumin, Smoked Paprika: Classic Mexican spices that deliver warm, smoky undertones.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Add aromatic depth and enhance overall savory notes.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall flavor.

• Lime Juice: Adds bright, fresh citrus note to complete the dish.

• Rice, Tortillas, Salad: Versatile base options for serving the roasted chicken.

Oven Roasted Chicken Al Pastor Instructions

Step 1: Whip Up Zesty Marinade

• Pineapple chunks
• Chipotle peppers
• Olive oil
• Vinegar
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blast everything together until the mixture transforms into a smooth, vibrant sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the explosive marinade over chicken thighs in a spacious bowl or sturdy plastic bag.

Ensure every inch of chicken gets coated with the tangy mixture.

Seal and park in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour, though overnight marinating will unlock maximum flavor potential.

Step 3: Prepare the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400°F.

This temperature ensures a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Step 4: Set Up Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.

Slide into the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes.

The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, guaranteeing safe and delectable results.

Step 6: Rest and Relax

Once out of the oven, let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes.

This crucial pause allows juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the chicken and serve alongside your favorite companions like fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp salad.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a bright, zesty finish that elevates the entire dish.

Al Pastor Tips For Juicy Chicken Finish

• Let chicken soak in the marinade overnight to allow deep penetration of spices and tenderize the meat thoroughly.
• Cover the baking sheet with foil during the first 15 minutes of cooking to keep chicken moist and prevent burning.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked results.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and extra pineapple chunks to add brightness and authentic Mexican street food flavor.
• Swap chicken thighs with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version while maintaining the same marinade and cooking technique.

Chicken Al Pastor Stored for Tender Flavorful Bites

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Seal chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
• Warm chicken at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
• Place chicken on microwave-safe plate, sprinkle few drops of water, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed, stirring midway to ensure even heating.

Oven Roasted Chicken Al Pastor Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy Mexican “Oven Roasted Chicken al Pastor” delivers a mouthwatering fusion of traditional adobo marinade and tender roasted chicken. Pineapple-infused flavors and bold spices create an irresistible meal you’ll crave time and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Fruits and Produce:

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for serving)

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Oils and Acids:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or white)

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Instructions

1. Craft a vibrant marinade by blending ripe pineapple chunks, smoky chipotle peppers, fragrant olive oil, tangy vinegar, earthy cumin, robust smoked paprika, aromatic garlic powder, zesty onion powder, salt, and freshly ground pepper until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
2. Transfer chicken thighs into a spacious container or zip-lock bag, thoroughly coating each piece with the prepared marinade. Seal and allow the flavors to meld in the refrigerator for a minimum of 60 minutes, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
3. Activate the oven and set the temperature to 400°F, ensuring proper preheating for consistent cooking.
4. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or applying a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
5. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining slight separation between pieces to promote even roasting.
6. Roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature precisely reaches 165°F, indicating full cooking and optimal food safety.
7. After removing from the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring tender, succulent meat.
8. Plate the roasted chicken alongside complementary accompaniments like fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp salad, and enhance the dish with a zesty lime juice drizzle for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

• Marinate chicken overnight to intensify the al pastor flavors and create a deeper, more complex taste profile.
• Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing chipotle peppers based on personal heat tolerance and preference.
• For a lighter option, swap chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but reduce cooking time to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise doneness and prevent overcooking, ensuring juicy and tender chicken every time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg