Cuban Mojo Chicken is a tasty dish full of bright flavors! Marinated in a yummy mix of citrus juice, garlic, and spices, it’s juicy and bursting with personality.
This chicken is great for a family dinner or a fun barbecue. I love making it ahead of time, letting those flavors mingle—it’s like a fiesta in your mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs/Drumsticks: I love using thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they may dry out faster. Bone-in pieces are great for a rich taste.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, avocado oil works well, too. Just avoid using a strong flavored oil like sesame, as it could overpower the dish.
Fresh Citrus Juices: Fresh orange and lime juices are key. If you don’t have fresh, bottled juice will do in a pinch, but the flavor may not be as bright. For a twist, try using grapefruit juice for a different flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic really brightens this dish. If you’re in a hurry, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used, but it won’t be as fragrant.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano bring the signature Cuban flavor. If you’re out of cumin, a mix of coriander and smoked paprika can provide a similar depth. Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance!
How Do I Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is essential for infusing the chicken with zesty goodness. Don’t rush this step! A good marinade can transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl, ensuring everything is mixed well.
- Place chicken in a bag or dish, pouring the marinade over it. Seal or cover tightly.
- For best results, let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Tip: If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marinate will add some flavor, but the longer, the better!
How Can I Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin?
Crispy skin on chicken can elevate your dish. Baking requires a few tips:
- Bake at a high temperature (400°F) to promote crispiness. Always preheat your oven first.
- Arrange chicken on top of vegetables to allow air circulation, which helps skin crisp up.
- Broil for a couple of minutes at the end for an extra crunch. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Enjoy your Cuban Mojo Chicken with that lovely crispy finish!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables and Garnish:
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
- 1 orange, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 lime, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate (ideally overnight). Baking the chicken will take about 35-45 minutes. So, set aside around 2 hours to enjoy this scrumptious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. This mix will be your flavorful mojo marinade. Make sure everything is well combined!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Get a large zip-top bag or a dish and place the chicken pieces inside. Pour the mojo marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly, or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or better yet, overnight) so the flavors really soak in.
3. Preheat the Oven:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s ready for baking as soon as you finish prepping!
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
On a large baking sheet, spread out the sliced onion and bell pepper evenly. Lay the marinated chicken right on top of the veggies. Now, arrange the sliced orange and lime around the chicken for extra flavor and a pretty look.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. You want the chicken to cook through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you like crispy skin, turn on the broiler for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it!
6. Serve:
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay inside. Drizzle with the tasty juices from the pan and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve it up with additional lime and orange slices on the side. Enjoy your delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs or Drumsticks?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than thighs or drumsticks, so check for doneness after about 25-30 minutes to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Citrus Juices?
If you don’t have fresh orange or lime juice, you can use bottled juice, but make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor. For a tangy twist, you could also try lemon juice in place of lime.
How Should I Store Leftover Mojo Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but it may not keep the skin crispy.
Can I Make the Mojo Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mojo marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good whisk before using to recombine the ingredients!
