Cuban Mojo Chicken is a juicy and flavorful dish that marinated in a zesty sauce made from garlic, citrus, and spices. The tangy flavors make it a hit at any meal.
This chicken shines on the grill, bringing a delicious smokiness. I love serving it with rice or black beans for a complete meal. Your taste buds will thank you! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: Bone-in, skin-on cuts are best for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless pieces, but be aware they may cook faster. Chicken breasts are another alternative.
Fresh Orange & Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides vibrant taste. If you don’t have fresh, bottled juice works, but check for added sugars or preservatives. You can also try grapefruit for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is important for flavor. If you lack fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove needed.
Oregano and Cumin: These spices bring classic Cuban flavor. Dried herbs are fine, but fresh is always better. If you don’t have oregano, Italian seasoning could be a decent substitute. For cumin, ground coriander can replace it in a pinch.
Vegetables: The onions and bell peppers create a flavorful base. Feel free to use other veggies like zucchini or asparagus, depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Flavored Perfectly?
Marinating is essential for getting that robust flavor in the chicken. Create a marinade that’s both acidic and aromatic, which helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor.
- Mix orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper well.
- Make sure all chicken pieces are completely coated, and cover it tightly while marinating to prevent any odors from spreading in your fridge.
- For best results, aim to marinate overnight. However, two hours can still significantly enhance the flavor.
Don’t forget to whisk the marinade again before pouring it over the chicken. This redistributes the spices well!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 4 chicken drumsticks
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 3-4 limes)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Orange and lime slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cuban Mojo Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 2 hours for marinating. Baking the chicken will take about 35-40 minutes. If you let it marinate overnight, you’ll have a deliciously flavorful dish that’s ready to bake the next day. Total time may be around 2 hours and 55 minutes, including marinating and cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is mixed well to create a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade, using your hands or a spoon to ensure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
3. Prepare for Baking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, take out a large baking sheet. Arrange the sliced red onion and bell peppers in a single layer on the sheet. This will create a delicious bed for your chicken to roast on.
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and place it on top of the sliced vegetables on the baking sheet. If there’s any leftover marinade, pour it over the chicken to add even more flavor.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is nice and golden brown.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want crispy skin, broil the chicken on high for the last 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and add some orange and lime slices for an extra pop of color. Serve your Cuban Mojo Chicken warm alongside the roasted vegetables and drizzled with any delicious sauce from the pan. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary—breasts typically cook faster, so check for doneness at around 25-30 minutes to avoid drying them out.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juice?
If you don’t have fresh orange or lime juice, store-bought juice can work in a pinch, but fresh juice really enhances the flavor! If using bottled juice, make sure to choose one without added sugars or preservatives for the best taste.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is even better! It allows more time for the flavors to penetrate the chicken. Just make sure to cover it tightly in the refrigerator to keep it fresh, and remember not to marinate for more than 24 hours to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker results. You can also enjoy the chicken cold in salads or wraps!
