This Cuban Mojo Chicken is bursting with flavor! Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, it’s juicy and full of taste. Your taste buds will thank you!
I love grilling this chicken on warm days—it’s like a mini vacation on my plate! Pair it with rice and beans for a tasty meal that feels like a fiesta. 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks: These cuts are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for marinating. If you need a healthier option, skinless chicken breasts can work, but they might be drier. Try to cook them less to keep moisture.
Fresh Orange & Lime Juice: Fresh juices give the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can substitute, but opt for 100% juice with no added sugar. I often mix lemon juice for a twist!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for the mojo’s punchy flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1/2 teaspoon per clove. But trust me, fresh is better!
Olive Oil: This adds richness but feel free to swap it with avocado oil for a lighter taste or if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Spices: The combination of cumin, oregano, and paprika brings an authentic taste. If you don’t have one, try mixing in some Italian herbs or chili powder for different flavors, but keep the cumin for that base taste!
How Do I Whisk Up the Perfect Mojo Marinade?
The marinade is what makes the chicken sing! To ensure you get that amazing flavor, follow these steps:
- Combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, and olive oil in a bowl. Whisk until mixed.
- Add in cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. This should smell delicious already!
- It’s key to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight in the fridge. This intensifies the flavor and tenderizes the meat.
Remember to use a resealable bag or a bowl that you can cover tightly. This helps distribute the marinade evenly. Don’t shy away from massaging the marinade into the chicken a bit!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken thighs or drumsticks
For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
- 1 orange, sliced
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (overnight is best!). Cooking the chicken will take an additional 40-50 minutes in the oven. So, set aside some time for a delicious and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This tasty mixture is your mojo marinade that will infuse the chicken with bold flavors!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs or drumsticks and place them into a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the mojo marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, overnight is preferred.
3. Prepare for Baking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Scatter the sliced onion and bell pepper around the chicken, and place the orange slices on top for extra flavor!
4. Bake the Chicken:
Drizzle any remaining marinade over the chicken and veggies. Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a crispy, golden skin. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear!
5. Finish and Serve:
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the chicken with the pan juices, and pair it with some rice, black beans, or a simple salad for a delightful meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine!
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs or drumsticks are traditional, you can use pork loin or fish like salmon for a different twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly: fish will cook faster at around 15-20 minutes, while pork will need about 25-30 minutes depending on thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Juices?
No worries! You can substitute with store-bought orange and lime juice. Just be mindful that fresh juice has a brighter flavor, so you might want to add a bit more garlic or spices to enhance the taste. Start with a ratio of 3:1 of orange to lime juice for similar flavor profiles.
How Do I Store Leftover Mojo Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of fresh lime juice to revive the flavors.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mojo marinade a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply give it a good stir before marinating the chicken for best flavor.
