Name: Cuban Mojo Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds chicken thighs; 1 tsp cumin; 1 Garlic clove (minced); 1 Orange (sliced); 1 lemon (sliced); 1 lime (sliced); 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ cup mojo sauce; 2 Garlic cloves; ¾ cup cilantro; ⅓ cup mint; ½ cup olive oil

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The first time I tried Cuban Mojo Chicken, I was transported to a sun-soaked patio in Miami, where the air was filled with vibrant aromas and laughter. I remember being so curious about the bright flavors that danced on my palate, and I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. The blend of citrus and herbs in this dish is nothing short of magical, transforming ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this dish never fails to impress. It’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing stories and creating memories around the table. Let me guide you through making your own delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
390 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
26 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Oven, Frying Pan, Blender

Why This Cuban Mojo Chicken Works

1. Flavors That Sing

What I love most about Cuban Mojo Chicken is its incredible flavor profile. The combination of fresh citrus juices from oranges, lemons, and limes, paired with fragrant garlic and spices, creates a marinade that is both refreshing and bold. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is not just a weeknight dinner; it’s versatile enough for gatherings and celebrations. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, Cuban Mojo Chicken brings a festive spirit to the table. You can serve it at summer barbecues or cozy winter evenings, making it a year-round favorite.

3. Simple Yet Impressive

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The marinade does all the hard work, infusing the chicken with incredible flavor while you go about your day.

4. Easy Clean-Up

Cooking should be enjoyable, not a chore! With Cuban Mojo Chicken, you can marinate the chicken in a single bowl and bake it in one pan. This means fewer dishes to wash afterward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up.

5. A Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe is always a hit with family and friends. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it hard to resist, and the juicy chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together and sparks conversations at the dinner table.

What’s In This Cuban Mojo Chicken

When it comes to making Cuban Mojo Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The bright, tangy citrus flavors combined with aromatic herbs and spices work together to create a deliciously juicy chicken that is sure to impress. Each ingredient contributes to the overall taste and texture of the dish, making it a symphony of flavors that you’ll want to savor again and again.

3 Pounds of chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these thighs offer a rich flavor and juicy texture that holds up beautifully to the citrus marinade.
1 Tsp of cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the citrus notes perfectly.
1 Garlic clove, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory element that enhances the overall flavor of the marinade.
1 Orange, sliced: Infuses the chicken with bright, sweet flavor and helps caramelize during cooking.
1 lemon, sliced: Adds acidity and zest that balances the sweetness of the orange.
1 lime, sliced: Complements the other citrus fruits with its sharp tanginess.
2 Tbsp of olive oil: Helps the marinade adhere to the chicken and adds a rich flavor.
½ Cup of mojo sauce: A flavorful marinade that brings all the spices and herbs together.
Juice from 2 oranges: Provides the primary flavor of the marinade, adding sweetness and acidity.
Juice from 1 lime: Enhances the citrus profile and adds a zesty kick.
Juice from 1 lemon: Complements the other juices with its bright acidity.
2 Garlic cloves: Additional garlic for extra flavor in the mojo sauce.
¾ Cup of cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
⅓ Cup of mint: Provides a refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
½ Cup of olive oil: Used in the mojo sauce to create a smooth and cohesive marinade.

Cooking Instructions for Cuban Mojo Chicken

Making Cuban Mojo Chicken is a delightful experience that brings together wonderful flavors and aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a meal that will impress your family and friends. Let’s get started!

Start by placing the chicken thighs into a large mixing bowl. The thighs should be fresh and trimmed of excess fat to ensure a juicy outcome. This is the base of our flavorful dish.
Add cumin and a minced garlic clove to the bowl. These two ingredients will infuse the chicken with rich flavors. Use your hands to rub the spices thoroughly over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
Next, pour in the mojo sauce, making sure each piece of chicken is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken fully.
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature will help achieve a deliciously crispy skin.
Once the marinating time is up, take the chicken out of the refrigerator. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking pan. This positioning allows for even cooking and crisping of the skin.
Lay the lemon, orange, and lime slices over the chicken thighs, adding even more flavor. The citrus will caramelize in the oven, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the chicken and citrus slices. This will help keep the chicken moist and add a beautiful sheen.
Bake the chicken in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes, spooning the pan juices over the chicken every 15 minutes. This technique will ensure that the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
When the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for several minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
For the mojo sauce, place all the ingredients, except for the olive oil, into a blender. Blend until smooth, then slowly pour in the olive oil while blending on low. This will create a luscious sauce to drizzle over the chicken.

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating Time: It’s best to not marinate the chicken for more than 2 hours. However, if you are short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes will still impart a lot of flavor.
Resting Period: Always allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.
Citrus Flavor: The combination of citrus fruits not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.
Serving Suggestion: I recommend serving Cuban Mojo Chicken with extra mojo sauce on the side for those who want a burst of flavor with each bite.

Tips for Success

Creating the perfect Cuban Mojo Chicken is simple when you follow these tips. They will ensure that your dish turns out delicious every time.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze any leftover mojo sauce in ice cube trays for easy portioning later.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice and beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Flavor Boost: For an extra punch of flavor, add a few sliced jalapeños to the marinade.
Grill Option: You can grill the chicken instead of baking it for a smoky flavor. Keep the marinade the same!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Cuban Mojo Chicken, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:

With Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or yellow rice for a hearty meal.
Fresh Salad: Pair it with a light and refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
Side of Beans: Black beans or kidney beans are excellent side dishes that complement the dish’s flavors.
Taco Night: Use the chicken as a filling for tacos, topping them with fresh salsa and avocado.
Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled vegetables on the side for a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.
Celebratory Dinners: This dish shines during special occasions like birthdays or family gatherings.
Seasonal Pairings: During summer, serve with a fruit salad, and in winter, pair with roasted root vegetables.

FAQ

The best way to marinate Cuban Mojo Chicken is to use a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, and spices. Ensure that the chicken is coated well in the marinade, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. Also, make sure to cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep the marinade from splattering. If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marinade will impart some flavor, but longer is better!

Yes, you can prepare Cuban Mojo Chicken in advance! Marinate the chicken a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time on cooking day but also enhances the flavors as they have more time to meld together. You can also cook the chicken and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.

There are many delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Cuban Mojo Chicken. Classic accompaniments include rice and black beans, which soak up the flavors of the chicken. A fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, while grilled vegetables provide a nice touch of color and nutrition. You might also consider pairing it with sweet plantains or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the meat.

To store leftovers from your Cuban Mojo Chicken, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, the chicken will stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before adding it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.

Conclusion

The Cuban Mojo Chicken is truly a feast for the senses, combining bright citrus flavors with tender, juicy chicken. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table. I encourage you to try making it at home—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is! As you savor each bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite for so many.