Cuban Mojo Chicken is a bright and flavorful dish that captures the soul of Caribbean cuisine. Marinated in a vibrant mix of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs, this chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with mouthwatering depth. It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully for grilling, pan-searing, or even baking—offering that punch of flavor no matter the method. Served with rice, grilled vegetables, or fried plantains, it delivers a perfect balance of zest and savor.
Whether you’re prepping ahead for the week or looking to impress guests at a weekend cookout, Cuban Mojo Chicken is a guaranteed hit. The marinade is incredibly easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, yet it transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special. It’s gluten-free, naturally low in carbs, and adjustable for different spice preferences. From backyard barbecues to dinner-for-two, this dish brings a burst of tropical sunshine to your plate.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1/4 cup fresh orange juice
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1/4 cup fresh lime juice
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried)
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional garnish)
Directions:
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In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Place chicken thighs in a ziplock bag or bowl and pour the marinade over. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
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Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
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Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Rest the chicken for a few minutes, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with rice, plantains, or salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Cuban Mojo Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a sensory journey through the colorful and vibrant heart of Cuban cuisine. At its core, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients brought to life through a perfect balance of citrus, garlic, and herbs. Its distinctive flavor profile sets it apart from typical chicken recipes, making it an exciting and memorable addition to any home cook’s rotation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, Mojo Chicken offers a taste of the Caribbean that is bright, fresh, and deeply satisfying.
A Recipe Rooted in Tradition
The word “mojo” (pronounced mo-ho) originates from the Spanish and Caribbean culinary lexicon, referring to a sauce or marinade made from garlic, olive oil, and citrus juice. In Cuba, mojo sauce is a foundational flavor component, used to marinate pork, chicken, or even vegetables. It’s often customized with ingredients like oregano, cumin, or fresh cilantro, depending on regional traditions or family recipes. Cuban Mojo Chicken takes this heritage sauce and uses it to tenderize and flavor chicken thighs or breasts, creating a dish that’s rich in history and robust in taste.
What makes this recipe special is not just its traditional roots but its adaptability. It bridges cultural authenticity with modern convenience, allowing anyone to recreate an iconic dish with ingredients found in most kitchens. You don’t need a complicated spice blend or an advanced cooking technique—just a well-crafted marinade and a few simple steps.
Why This Recipe Works
There are a few key reasons Cuban Mojo Chicken has become a favorite for food lovers and home cooks alike:
1. Flavor Explosion
Thanks to the combination of freshly squeezed orange and lime juice, garlic, and spices like cumin and oregano, Mojo Chicken boasts a bold and tangy flavor. The acidity of the citrus juices tenderizes the chicken, while the garlic infuses every bite with irresistible savory depth. This balance of brightness and richness creates a complex flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating.
2. Healthy and Nutritious
This dish is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following Whole30, paleo, or low-carb diets. Using lean chicken thighs or breasts keeps it high in protein, while olive oil provides heart-healthy fats. It’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste for nutrition.
3. Meal Prep Friendly
Mojo Chicken is perfect for batch cooking and weekly meal prep. The chicken can be marinated overnight and grilled or pan-seared in just minutes. It also stores and reheats well, making it an ideal component for lunch bowls, wraps, or salads throughout the week.
4. Versatility in Serving
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Serve it with white rice and black beans for a classic Cuban combo, or try it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or even as a sandwich filling. It pairs beautifully with both simple and elaborate side dishes, adapting to any mealtime mood.
A Global Crowd-Pleaser
Mojo Chicken has transcended its Cuban origins and become a global favorite thanks to its accessible ingredients and universally appealing flavor. In the United States and across Europe, it has found its way into food trucks, restaurant menus, and home kitchens. The marinade technique has even inspired fusion dishes like Mojo tacos, grain bowls, and Mojo-glazed wings.
In a world of increasingly complex and experimental recipes, the simplicity of Cuban Mojo Chicken is refreshing. Its appeal lies in its no-fuss preparation and authentic flavor, offering both convenience and culinary satisfaction. It’s proof that a humble marinade can elevate chicken from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few quality ingredients.
Tips to Make the Best Mojo Chicken
To truly master this dish, here are some essential tips:
Use fresh citrus juice – Bottled lime or orange juice lacks the vibrancy of fresh juice and can alter the flavor profile. Freshly squeezed juice gives the marinade its signature tang and brightness.
Don’t skimp on the marinating time – While the chicken can be grilled after just one hour, overnight marination yields the best results, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Grill or pan-sear for added depth – Grilling the chicken imparts a slight smokiness that complements the marinade. If you don’t have access to a grill, a hot skillet or cast-iron pan also delivers a beautifully caramelized crust.
Let the chicken rest – After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Modern Twists and Variations
While traditional Mojo Chicken is delicious as is, you can get creative with it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Mojo Chicken Tacos: Slice the cooked chicken and serve in corn tortillas with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of crema.
- Mojo Chicken Bowl: Build a nourishing bowl with rice or greens, black beans, grilled vegetables, and sliced Mojo Chicken.
- Vegetarian Mojo: Use the marinade on grilled tofu, tempeh, or portobello mushrooms for a flavorful meat-free version.
- Spicy Mojo: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick.
Cuban Mojo Chicken: A Feel-Good Favorite
Whether you’re craving a dish with flair or need something you can whip up with pantry staples, Cuban Mojo Chicken hits the mark. It’s a recipe that combines speed, nutrition, and flavor in perfect harmony. More than just a weeknight dinner option, it’s a way to bring the essence of the Caribbean to your kitchen—vibrant, joyful, and always full of life.
Conclusion
Cuban Mojo Chicken is a true testament to how a few thoughtfully combined ingredients can transform a simple protein into a crave-worthy, flavor-packed dish. Its citrusy brightness, garlicky depth, and herbaceous zing offer a little vacation with every bite. Whether you’re new to Cuban cuisine or already a fan of Latin flavors, this recipe is one to bookmark, master, and make again and again.
Its beauty lies in its balance—easy to prepare, deeply satisfying to eat, and endlessly versatile in how you enjoy it. From family dinners to meal prep containers to festive summer cookouts, Cuban Mojo Chicken brings people to the table, forks in hand, and smiles on faces.
Let this be the next recipe you try—and the next one you fall in love with.