Looking for a flavorful chicken recipe that’s both simple and satisfying? This Asado Chicken is just what you need! Marinated in a blend of smoked paprika, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, these chicken breasts are infused with a smoky, tangy flavor that’s irresistible. The marinade tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and full of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this Asado Chicken recipe is sure to be a hit. Ready to fire up your skillet or grill? Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• 3 lbs (1 1/2 kg) Chicken breast
• 8 Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp Oregano
• 1 tbsp smoked Paprika
• 2 tsp Cumin Powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken stock
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice, more for serving
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Chili Flakes
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Olive Oil
• Salt and fresh cracked black pepper

Equipment I Used

• Skillet
• Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• Measuring Shot Glass
• Cutting Board

How to Make It

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine 1 tbsp of smoked paprika, 2 tsp of cumin powder, 2 tsp of oregano, ½ tsp of onion powder, ½ tsp of chili flakes, 8 minced garlic cloves, ¼ cup (60ml) of chicken stock, ¼ cup (60ml) of lemon juice, and ¼ cup (60ml) of olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until well mixed, creating a flavorful marinade. Taste the marinade and adjust the salt and lemon juice as needed to suit your preference. This ensures the marinade is balanced and enhances the flavor of the chicken.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the 3 lbs (1½ kg) of chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated on all sides. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours. This step helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with bold, smoky flavors.

Preheat the Skillet

When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about a minute until it is shimmering but not smoking. This ensures the chicken will sear nicely without sticking to the pan.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken on one side for about 7-8 minutes, without moving it, to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 7-8 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured with an instant-read thermometer. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Rest and Serve

Once the chicken breasts are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Serve the Asado Chicken hot, with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness. Pair it with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice for a complete meal.