why make this recipe

Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs are a dish bursting with flavor and zest. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a good grilled chicken dish. You will love the combination of citrus and spices that make this meal unforgettable. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and a hit with kids and adults alike! Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs are ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends and family.

how to make Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

Step-by-step overview

Making Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs is easy and fun. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

Make the marinade: In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and orange zest. This creates the mojo marinade that packs a punch of flavor.
Marinate the chicken: Take your chicken thighs and place them in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over them, ensuring they’re well coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best results.
Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill each thigh for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest before serving: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

how to serve Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs are perfect served with a side of rice and black beans or a fresh salad. You can also add some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Feel free to garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh herbs for presentation.

how to store Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

tips to make Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

Marinade longer for more flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken thighs overnight for richer taste.
Use a meat thermometer: Make sure your chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices or adjust the heat level to suit your taste preferences!

variation

For a different twist, consider using chicken breasts instead of thighs or adding some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the marinade. You can also try grilling other meats or tofu using the same marinade for a delicious vegetarian option.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the cut you choose.

How spicy is the marinade?

The marinade includes red pepper flakes, which adds a little heat. You can reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mojo marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. This makes your meal prep even easier!

Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

A flavorful grilled chicken dish with a vibrant citrus and spice marinade, perfect for weeknight dinners or barbecues.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 14

Total Time 29

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Grilling, Main Course

Cuisine: Caribbean, Cuban

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Mojo Marinade

1 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed is best
1 cup lime juice Freshly squeezed is best
6 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp oregano
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust for desired heat
1 tbsp orange zest

Main Ingredients

4 pieces chicken thighs Bone-in, skin-on or skinless according to preference

Method

Preparation

In a bowl, mix together orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and orange zest to create the mojo marinade.
Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the mojo marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best results.

Cooking

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill each thigh for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Notes

Serve with rice and black beans or a fresh salad. For presentation, garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh herbs. For longer storage, chicken can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.