Easy Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
Craving a dish that delivers smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite? This Chicken Al Pastor recipe is your gateway to bold, authentic Mexican taste without the fuss. Whether you’re a taco enthusiast or a fan of backyard grilling, you’re about to discover a recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to marinate, cook, and serve Chicken Al Pastor using simple ingredients and easy steps. We’ll also cover variations, pro tips, and answers to common questions so you get the perfect dish every time.
Table of Contents
What Is Chicken Al Pastor?
Al Pastor is a popular Mexican dish traditionally made with pork, inspired by Lebanese shawarma brought over by immigrants in the early 20th century. Over time, Mexican cooks added their own flair—using achiote paste, pineapple, and dried chilies to create a marinade that’s rich, smoky, and slightly sweet.
When you swap pork for chicken, you still get all the bold flavors, but with a leaner and quicker-cooking protein. Chicken Al Pastor is perfect for weeknight meals, summer grilling, or taco Tuesdays.
Why Chicken Al Pastor?
- Leaner alternative to pork
- Faster to cook
- Easily customizable
- Works in tacos, bowls, salads, and more
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Marinade
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | 2 lbs |
| Pineapple juice | 1/2 cup |
| Achiote paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Guajillo chilies (deseeded) | 2 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 cloves |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
For Serving
- Warm corn tortillas
- Chopped white onion
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Grilled pineapple slices (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Marinade
- Soak guajillo chilies in hot water for 15 minutes.
- In a blender, combine the softened chilies, achiote paste, pineapple juice, garlic, vinegar, and spices. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 5-7 minutes per side until nicely charred and internal temperature hits 165°F.
- Oven Method: Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. For added char, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Stovetop Method: Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat, 6-7 minutes per side.
4. Rest and Slice
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Slice thinly, across the grain, for tender bites.
5. Assemble Your Tacos
- Warm your tortillas on the grill or skillet.
- Fill each with sliced Chicken Al Pastor.
- Top with onions, cilantro, and pineapple.
- Squeeze lime over the top and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Authentic Flavor
Use Chicken Thighs
They stay juicy and absorb the marinade better than breasts.
Don’t Skip Pineapple
It’s not just garnish. Pineapple adds the perfect balance of sweet acidity to the smoky spices.
Rest Before Slicing
Resting the meat locks in juices, keeping every bite moist and flavorful.
Substitutions and Variations
Protein Options
- Chicken breast: Leaner, but slightly drier than thighs.
- Tofu or mushrooms: For a vegetarian twist.
Cooking Methods
- Slow cooker: Marinate, then cook on low for 6 hours.
- Air fryer: Cook at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.
Spice Levels
- Want more heat? Add chipotle or arbol chilies.
- Prefer mild? Reduce or omit spicy chilies.
How to Serve Chicken Al Pastor
Tacos
- Classic and unbeatable. Serve with chopped onion, cilantro, and grilled pineapple.
Bowls
- Layer over rice with beans, corn, salsa, and avocado.
Salads
- Add sliced Chicken Al Pastor to a bed of greens with lime vinaigrette.
Meal Prep
- Store in portions for up to 4 days. Great for quick lunches or dinners.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Use a skillet for the best texture. Microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Chicken Al Pastor taste like?
It has a bold, smoky flavor with hints of sweetness from pineapple and warmth from spices like cumin and chili.
Can I make Chicken Al Pastor without a grill?
Yes! The oven or stovetop methods work just as well and still deliver great flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 4 hours, but overnight gives you the most flavor.
What’s the difference between pork and chicken al pastor?
Pork is traditional and richer, while chicken is leaner and faster to cook but still packs the same great taste.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken up to 2 days in advance and even cook and freeze portions for later.
Is Chicken Al Pastor spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level, which you can adjust to your taste by adding or omitting certain chilies.
What toppings go best with Chicken Al Pastor tacos?
White onion, cilantro, grilled pineapple, salsa verde, and a squeeze of lime.
Conclusion
Chicken Al Pastor brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico into your kitchen without complicated steps. Whether you’re grilling for friends or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bold, easy, and unforgettable.
Give it a try and transform your next taco night with this mouthwatering Chicken Al Pastor recipe. Don’t forget to share it and save it for your next fiesta!