Cuban Mojo Chicken is a tasty dish packed with flavor! It’s marinated in a zesty mix of orange juice, garlic, and spices that make every bite exciting and juicy.
Cooking this chicken is pure joy! The smell alone will have everyone asking what’s for dinner. I like to serve it with rice and beans—it’s a party on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer chicken leg quarters for their rich flavor and juiciness. Thighs are a good substitute. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken breasts will also work, but keep an eye on cooking time since they may dry out quicker.
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances flavor and moisture, but feel free to swap it with avocado oil if you want something with a higher smoke point. Just make sure it’s a neutral oil that won’t overpower the dish.
Citrus Juices: Fresh lime juice and orange juice are key for that zesty, tangy flavor. If limes are unavailable, you can use lemon juice instead. For orange juice, a mix of grapefruit juice can also add a nice twist.
Spices: Oregano, cumin, and paprika add depth. If you need a quicker alternative, a pre-made taco or seasoning mix could do the job. Just adjust the quantity as per taste since they can be stronger!
Fresh Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers provide sweetness and texture. You can mix it up with other colorful veggies like zucchini or carrots if you like. Just keep the cooking time in mind, as some will cook faster than others.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing your chicken with flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large resealable bag or dish to ensure all chicken pieces are coated well.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients together thoroughly so that the flavors meld.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for deep flavor.
- Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the marinade for even flavor distribution.
Don’t rush through this step; giving your chicken time to soak up the citrusy goodness will make a big difference in taste!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken leg quarters (or thighs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
- 1 orange, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken. Then, it will take around 35-45 minutes to bake it in the oven. So, you can have a tasty meal ready in about 3 hours, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, and minced garlic. Add the oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This zesty marinade will give great flavor to the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken leg quarters and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge. For the best flavor, let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better!
3. Prepare for Baking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large baking dish or sheet pan, spread out the sliced onion, bell pepper, and orange slices. These veggies will be delicious and help flavor the chicken while it cooks.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and place it on top of the arranged vegetables in the baking dish. Be sure to pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and veggies. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be beautifully golden brown when done.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked perfectly, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. It goes wonderfully with rice or plantains for an authentic Cuban flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs or Leg Quarters?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead. Just reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, as they cook faster. Make sure to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Prepare the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. It’s a great time-saver for a busy day!
How Should I Store Leftover Mojo Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can use the microwave for quicker results.
Can I Freeze the Marinated Chicken?
Yes! Freeze the marinated chicken in a resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking, and it will be just as flavorful as when you first prepared it!
