Copycat Trader Joe's Citrus Annatto Pollo Asado
This Mexican-inspired grilled chicken recreates the beloved Trader Joe's version with a vibrant marinade of lime juice, lemon juice, and annatto paste. The earthy spice blend featuring cumin, paprika, and coriander creates tender, flavorful chicken with a beautiful orange hue from the achiote. Perfect for weeknight tacos, meal prep, or casual entertaining when you want restaurant-quality pollo asado at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon annatto paste1 tsp paprika + 1/2 tsp turmeric1:1dairy-freegluten-free
loses authentic color and earthy flavor
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- 1
Combine lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, annatto paste, cumin, paprika, coriander, cloves, oregano, pepper, and salt in a small bowl
- 2
Slice chicken breasts thinly and place in a large plastic bag
- 3
Pour marinade over chicken, seal bag removing air, and massage marinade into meat
- 4
Refrigerate for 2 hours
- 5
Heat large skillet over medium heat and add remaining olive oil
- 6
Cook chicken 5-8 minutes per side until cooked through
- 7
Serve in tacos with green onions, queso fresco, and cilantro
Tips
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness before slicing for more consistent cooking and better marinade penetration.
Don't skip the 2-hour marinating time as the citrus acids need time to tenderize the meat and develop flavors.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for food safety.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked chicken up to 3 days in airtight container
Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor
Serve immediately while hot for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Don't overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the chicken
Don't skip marinating time to avoid bland, tough meat
Don't cook on high heat to avoid burning the spices before chicken cooks through
Substitutions
loses authentic color and earthy flavor
FAQ
Can I grill this chicken instead of pan-searing?
Yes, grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side. The marinade may cause flare-ups, so watch carefully and move to cooler spots if needed.
What if I can't find annatto paste?
Substitute with 1 teaspoon paprika plus 1/2 teaspoon turmeric. You'll lose some authentic flavor and the distinctive orange color, but it's still delicious.
How long does the cooked chicken keep?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.