With these Chicken Al Pastor Recipes at your fingertips, you’re all set to host a fabulous Mexican-themed dinner that will impress your friends and family.
Bursting with flavors and paired perfectly with traditional Mexican drinks, these recipes are sure to turn your kitchen into the hottest eatery in town.
Let’s explore the varieties from Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor to Crockpot Al Pastor Tacos, including the secrets to the perfect Al Pastor Marinade and how to master Oven Roasted Chicken Al Pastor.
The Best Chicken Al Pastor Recipes
The key to perfecting these dishes lies in the marinade and the love you put into cooking.
1. Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor
This recipe is a fantastic copycat of the popular Chipotle favorite. It incorporates the smoky richness of chipotle peppers combined with the tangy zest of pineapple, creating a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
The Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor is marinated to perfection, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. Serve it with a side of cilantro lime rice or stuff it in tacos for a complete meal.
2. Classic Chicken Al Pastor
Enjoy the authenticity of traditional Al Pastor with this straightforward recipe. Marinated in a blend of dried chilies, spices, and pineapple juice, this dish offers an explosion of flavors. Grill the marinated chicken to achieve a charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Pair this delightful dish with a refreshing margarita or a cold cerveza to enhance the dining experience.
3. Crockpot Al Pastor Tacos
For those who love set-it-and-forget-it recipes, Crockpot Al Pastor Tacos are your go-to option. This slow cooker version allows the chicken to soak up all the Al Pastor Marinade, merging the flavors over several hours to create tender, pull-apart meat that’s perfect for taco filling.
Top with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a touch of freshness.
4. Al Pastor Marinade
The secret to any outstanding Al Pastor dish lies in its marinade. This Al Pastor Marinade recipe combines guajillo peppers, garlic, achiote paste, and pineapple juice, creating a rich, vibrant paste that brings the classic Mexican flavors to life.
Whether you’re marinating chicken, pork, or even vegetables, this versatile marinade will not disappoint.
5. Oven Roasted Chicken Al Pastor
Not everyone has access to a grill, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Chicken Al Pastor. This Oven Roasted version is just as delicious, with all the traditional flavors baked right in your oven. It’s perfect for a hassle-free dinner that still promises a feast of flavors.
Serve with warm tortillas, cilantro rice and your choice of salsa for a satisfying meal.
Pairing Your Meal with Mexican Drinks
To truly embrace the spirit of Mexican cuisine, pair your Chicken Al Pastor dishes with traditional drinks like a classic margarita, a smoky mezcal or even a tequila sunrise. These beverages complement the spicy and tangy flavors of the chicken, rounding off the meal perfectly.
