Cuban Mojo Chicken is a tasty dish that’s full of flavor! The chicken is marinated in a zesty mix of garlic, citrus juices, and spices, making each bite juicy and refreshing.
Every time I make this, I can’t help but dance a little, pretending I’m in a Cuban kitchen. It’s super easy to whip up, and your family will love the delicious aroma that fills the house!
I like to serve it with rice and black beans for a complete meal. You can be sure this dish will make everyone smile at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: I recommend using bone-in, skin-on pieces for their rich flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts can be used, but they may not be as tender.
Orange and Lime Juice: Fresh juice is key for the mojo’s brightness. Bottled juice won’t taste as vibrant. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use bottled juice, just opt for 100% juice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for its strong flavor. You can substitute with garlic powder, but I find that fresh brings the best taste to marinades.
Cumin and Oregano: These spices add authentic Cuban flavors. If you don’t have cumin, try coriander for a different spin. Dried oregano works great too, but fresh would make it even better!
Bell Pepper: I used a mix of colors for presentation. Any sweet bell pepper works well. For a kick, feel free to add jalapeños or other chili peppers.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
Marinating is your best friend here! Letting the chicken soak in that mojo marinade is crucial. For the best results, marinate overnight if possible. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your marinade, and ensure it’s well combined.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or bowl and pour half the marinade over it.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then put it in the fridge.
- For flavor, turn the chicken occasionally to coat all sides.
This extra time lets the chicken absorb those tasty flavors, making it juicy and aromatic when cooked. And don’t forget, allowing the chicken to rest after roasting helps retain juices too!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 4 chicken drumsticks (skin-on)
For the Mojo Marinade:
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
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 takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor). Roasting will take about 35-45 minutes, bringing the total time to around 3 hours, including marinating and cooking time. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and salt. This tasty mix will become the mojo marinade that infuses the chicken with amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks into a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour half of the mojo marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Make sure to save the remaining marinade for later. Refrigerate the chicken and let it marinate for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better for a deeper taste!
3. Prepare for Roasting:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, in a large roasting pan, spread out the sliced onion and bell pepper as the base layer, creating a lovely bed for the chicken. Now, place the marinated chicken pieces on top of the vegetables.
4. Add the Citrus:
For an extra kick of flavor and a pretty presentation, arrange the sliced oranges and limes on top of the chicken. This will not only enhance the taste but also make your dish look beautiful!
5. Roast and Serve:
Roast the chicken in your preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely golden, crispy skin. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked. Once it’s done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
6. Garnish and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, garnish the chicken with fresh chopped cilantro and drizzle some of the reserved mojo marinade over the top. And there you have it—your delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken is ready to enjoy! Serve it hot, and relish every bite!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts or other cuts if preferred, though bone-in cuts tend to remain juicier during cooking. If using boneless chicken, adjust the cooking time to around 25-30 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Adjust the Flavor If I Prefer Spicier Mojo?
If you like some heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Taste it before marinating the chicken to ensure it matches your spice preference!
Can I Make the Mojo Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mojo marinade up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good whisk before using, as the ingredients may settle.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Mojo Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
