There’s something about crispy fried chicken paired with a bold, smoky chipotle sauce that just hits right every time. Mexican Pollo Frito is a celebration of flavor—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with vibrant seasoning. This recipe gives you the perfect combination of comfort and excitement.
SEE MORE CRISPY FRIED CHICKEN RECIPES HERE ➡️
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This version of pollo frito brings the heart of Mexican cuisine right to your table. With warm spices, tender chicken, and a chipotle sauce that adds just the right kick, it’s a dish you’ll make on repeat. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at a weekend get-together.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks or thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Breading:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chili powder
For the Chipotle Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Make the Chipotle Sauce
Blend the mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, and salt in a food processor until smooth. Taste and adjust spice as needed. Refrigerate until serving.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and chili powder in a shallow dish. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Shake off excess.
Step 4: Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 12-14 minutes depending on size. Place on a wire rack to drain.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Arrange the crispy chicken on a platter and drizzle or serve with the chipotle sauce on the side. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro if desired.
Serving Tips
- Pair with a simple tomato and onion salad.
- Serve with warm tortillas or cilantro-lime rice.
- Make it a platter with grilled corn and guacamole on the side.
Love these ideas?
Pin this post to save it for later or share the inspiration with friends!
📌 Follow Me on PinterestFinal Thoughts
This dish combines the irresistible crunch of fried chicken with the smoky heat of chipotle—two things that are hard to resist. Whether you’re throwing a party or just craving something bold, this Mexican Pollo Frito is a recipe that delivers every time.
SEE MORE CRISPY FRIED CHICKEN RECIPES HERE ➡️
Thank you for reading!
I hope you found something you love. Stay inspired — XOXO,
