Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into quarters
Marinade
- 6 1/2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 large onion, coarsely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon achiote paste
- 2 tablespoons guajillo chili powder
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Blend pineapple juice, white vinegar, lime juice, coarsely chopped onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, achiote paste, and guajillo chili powder into a smooth marinade using a blender or food processor.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken thigh quarters ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more intense flavor.
- Heat the Pan: In a skillet or grill pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces in the hot pan and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and slightly charred to replicate traditional al pastor texture.
- Caramelize Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks to the pan in the last few minutes of cooking and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until caramelized and infused with the chicken’s flavors.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and serve hot. Pair with Classic Mexican Rice or enjoy alongside Mexican Candy Shots for a festive touch.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderizes the meat.
- Use a grill pan for added grill marks and a smoky flavor if available.
- You can substitute boneless chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- If guajillo chili powder is unavailable, a mild chili powder can be used but will alter the flavor slightly.
- For best results, use fresh pineapple juice and chunks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
