**Asado Chicken: Mastering the Art of Argentinian Barbecue**
Grilled chicken, especially when accompanied by an assortment of different meats, is an integral component of the vibrant Argentinian barbecue tradition known as “asado.” This succulent and flavorful dish brings a taste of Argentina to your backyard, delighting guests and satisfying all who partake.
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### What’s an Asado?
An asado is more than just a barbecue; it is a joyful gathering, a celebration of rich flavors and community. This distinctive culinary practice involves slow-cooking various meats over a charcoal grill, infusing them with smoky, robust aromas that awaken the senses.
### Mastering Asado Chicken
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole chicken, butterflied
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tbsp smoked paprika
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges and chimichurri sauce for serving
**Step-by-Step Guide:**
1. *Prep the Chicken*: Rinse and pat the butterflied chicken dry, then season generously with salt and pepper.
2. *Marinate*: In a bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. Coat the chicken with the marinade and let it sit for at least two hours, or overnight for best results.
3. *Heat the Grill*: Light a charcoal grill and allow the coals to become white hot.
4. *Cook the Chicken*: Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down, and grill for about 15-20 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. *Serve*: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled chicken and serve with chimichurri sauce.
### The Chimichurri Sauce
A vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce is the perfect accompaniment to asado chicken. Combining parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar, chimichurri adds a tangy and fresh flair that enhances the natural juices of the meat.
### The Asado Experience
Patrick Martinez, an asado master from Buenos Aires, shares, “Asado is about sharing love and experiences. It’s a time for family and friends to gather around, share stories, and enjoy delicious food.”
### Conclusion
Argentinian grilled chicken is not just a meal; it is a cultural experience that transforms a simple barbecue into an extraordinary gathering. This dish, with its tantalizing flavors and rich cultural heritage, invites you to take part in the allure of Argentinian cuisine. Whether you’re crafting an intimate dinner or hosting a festive gathering, mastering asado chicken will surely impress.
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If you’re inspired to dive deeper into Argentinian barbecue and discover more traditional recipes, explore [Serious Eats’ Guide to Asado](https://www.seriouseats.com/what-is-asado-bbq-steak-argentina) for more insights and comprehensive how-tos.
