Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for Cuban mojo chicken! This dish is like a fiesta for your taste buds, bursting with vibrant flavors from citrus and garlic that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). The first time I made it, I was at a friend’s BBQ, and the aroma of the marinated chicken sizzling on the grill was simply irresistible. I was hooked! The combination of tangy orange and zesty lime juice with fragrant garlic creates this amazing marinade that seeps into the chicken, making it tender and juicy. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, and trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know. Perfect for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this Cuban mojo chicken is sure to impress!
Ingredients for Cuban Mojo Chicken Recipe
To whip up this mouthwatering Cuban mojo chicken, you’ll need some simple yet vibrant ingredients that pack a punch! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (trust me, fresh makes all the difference)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (the zestiness is key!)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (you can never have too much garlic!)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (for that lovely richness)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried if that’s what you have)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (it brings a warm, earthy note)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy, season it well!)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re already on your way to a flavorful feast!
How to Prepare Cuban Mojo Chicken Recipe
Now, let’s get to the fun part: preparing this delicious Cuban mojo chicken! First, grab a mixing bowl and combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nicely blended. This marinade is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it!
Next, take your chicken thighs and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour that beautiful marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. Seal the bag tightly, and pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you have time, let it marinate overnight for even more flavor!
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off (but don’t discard the marinade!). Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it’s cooked through and has those gorgeous grill marks. Trust me, the smell will be heavenly! Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, so it stays juicy. And that’s it—you’ve just made some fabulous Cuban mojo chicken!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for each serving of this flavorful Cuban mojo chicken. Each chicken thigh packs about 250 calories, with 15g of fat (including 2g saturated fat), 25g of protein, and 5g of carbohydrates. It also has 2g of sugar and 300mg of sodium. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, with all that deliciousness, who’s counting, right? Enjoy every juicy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, you’re going to adore this Cuban mojo chicken recipe! It’s packed with bold, vibrant flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick Preparation: With just a little marinating time, this dish comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of citrus and garlic creates an explosion of taste that’s simply irresistible!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made with fresh, wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile: This chicken pairs beautifully with so many sides—rice, plantains, or a fresh salad—making it a fantastic choice for any meal.
Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cuban mojo chicken turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips! First, don’t skimp on the marinating time—letting the chicken soak in that delicious marinade overnight really deepens the flavor. If you’re in a rush, aim for at least 2 hours, but trust me, overnight is best!
Also, when grilling, make sure your grill is properly preheated. This helps to get those beautiful grill marks and ensures a nice sear on the chicken. If you’re using bone-in thighs, check for doneness by making sure the juices run clear. And lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite juicy and tender. Follow these tips, and you’ll be a Cuban mojo chicken pro in no time!
Variations of Cuban Mojo Chicken Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this Cuban mojo chicken recipe! First off, why not try it with pork? Pork tenderloin or shoulder marinates beautifully in that same citrusy mojo sauce, giving you a different yet equally delicious flavor. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, use shrimp instead—just adjust the cooking time to a few minutes since shrimp cooks quickly!
You can also add vegetables to the grill! Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions tossed in a bit of olive oil and salt make fantastic companions to the chicken. Or, for a one-pan meal, throw in some cubed sweet potatoes or corn on the cob while grilling. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings its own delightful twist to the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your delicious Cuban mojo chicken, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer the chicken to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can also freeze it! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag—perfect for a quick meal later on!
When it’s time to reheat, you can either microwave it (just be careful not to overcook it, or it’ll dry out) or gently warm it in a skillet on low heat. If you choose the skillet, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your fabulous Cuban mojo chicken ready to go, let’s talk sides! This dish pairs beautifully with a fluffy bed of white rice or coconut rice, which soak up all that delicious mojo sauce. You can’t go wrong with crispy fried plantains, either—they add a lovely sweetness that balances the tangy chicken perfectly. If you’re looking for something fresh, a simple salad with avocado, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will brighten up your plate. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal and make it even more irresistible!
FAQ About Cuban Mojo Chicken Recipe
Got questions about making the perfect Cuban mojo chicken? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get:
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, I recommend marinating the chicken overnight. However, if you’re short on time, at least 2 hours will still work wonders!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so be sure to watch the cooking time closely. They usually take about 5-6 minutes on each side.
What if I don’t have fresh oregano?
No worries! You can use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano instead. It’ll still add that lovely herby flavor to your marinade.
Can I cook this in the oven?
Yes! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You bet! This Cuban mojo chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy every flavorful bite without worry!
Cuban Mojo Chicken Recipe: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful Cuban dish featuring marinated chicken with a citrus garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag and pour marinade over it.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For best results, marinate overnight.
- Serve with rice or plantains.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: cuban mojo chicken recipe