Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch

Ingredients to make The recipe :

To create your own Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Thighs: Approximately 2 to 3 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These cuts are favored for their rich flavor and moistness. The skin crisps up beautifully during cooking, providing a delightful contrast to the tender meat.
• Garlic: 6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced. Garlic is essential for infusing the chicken with aromatic flavor and adds depth to the marinade.
• Fresh Lime Juice: 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice. The acidity of lime juice not only tenderizes the chicken but also lends a bright, zesty flavor that is characteristic of Cuban cuisine.
• Fresh Orange Juice: 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice. This ingredient brings a subtle sweetness and balances the acidity of the lime juice, creating a well-rounded marinade.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil. This oil aids in marinating the chicken while contributing a smooth richness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Oregano: 2 teaspoons dried oregano. Oregano adds an earthy, herbal note that complements the citrus flavors in the marinade, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon ground cumin. Cumin provides a warm, nutty aroma that is often found in Cuban dishes, adding an authentic touch to the recipe.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Salt is critical for enhancing the flavors of the marinade and ensuring the chicken is seasoned throughout.
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Pepper adds a hint of spice and balances the other flavors in the dish.
• Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish. Cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to the finished dish, making it visually appealing.

How to Make Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch?

Creating your own Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Start by preparing your marinade. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Next, take your chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but for best results, let it marinate overnight. This extended marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid contamination.

Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on the grill grates. If baking, make sure to arrange the thighs skin-side up to achieve a crispy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. If grilling, cook the chicken for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and beautifully charred.

While the chicken cooks, take a moment to enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen or backyard. The combination of citrus and spices wafting through the air is a sure sign that something delicious is on its way.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven or grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. After resting, sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Now, it’s time to serve your Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch. You can pair it with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Your family and friends will be impressed by the vibrant flavors and tenderness of this dish.

Tips for Variations:

Exploring variations of Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch can elevate your culinary experience and suit different tastes. Here are some creative ideas to consider:

Firstly, consider experimenting with different types of citrus fruits in your marinade. While lime and orange are traditional, adding grapefruit or lemon can create a unique flavor profile that adds complexity to the dish. Each citrus fruit brings its own character, allowing you to customize the taste to your liking.

Incorporating different herbs and spices can also transform the flavor of your chicken. Try adding fresh thyme or bay leaves to the marinade for an earthy note. Alternatively, a pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the citrus elements.

If you want to enhance the heat level, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your marinade. This addition can give your dish a delightful kick without overpowering the other flavors, making it an exciting option for spice lovers.

For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, you might add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade. This addition can create a beautiful caramelization on the chicken during cooking, adding depth to the flavor and a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity.

Lastly, consider cooking methods to add variety to your meals. Instead of baking or grilling, try slow-cooking the marinated chicken in a Crock-Pot. This method will yield incredibly tender chicken that falls off the bone, with the marinade infusing every bite with flavor. Serve it over rice or in tacos for a comforting, hands-off meal.

Serving Suggestions:

When it comes to serving your Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch, the options are endless. For a traditional Cuban experience, serve the chicken alongside fluffy white rice and black beans. This classic combination is not only delicious but also provides a hearty and satisfying meal.

Consider adding a fresh salad featuring avocado, tomatoes, and red onion dressed with a light vinaigrette. This side brings a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken and adds vibrant colors to your plate. You can also include fried plantains for a delightful sweetness and texture that complements the dish beautifully.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving the chicken as part of a buffet-style meal. Offer a variety of sides such as quinoa salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes to allow guests to customize their plates. This approach encourages conversation and makes for a festive atmosphere.

During special occasions such as Ramadan, Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch can be a standout dish to break your fast. Its satisfying flavors and comforting qualities make it perfect for sharing with family and friends.

For storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored, the chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.

FAQ:

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best results.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch. After cooking, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their moisture and flavor, you can use chicken breasts. Keep in mind that they may require less cooking time, so monitor them closely to avoid dryness.

How spicy is the marinade?

The marinade for Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch is not inherently spicy. However, you can easily adjust the heat by adding jalapeños or hot sauce according to your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Cook the chicken on the day you plan to serve it for the best results.

Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch

A vibrant dish that brings the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine to your table with a tangy marinade of citrus, garlic, and spices.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main

Cuisine Cuban

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Grill

Ingredients

  

Chicken Thighs

• 2-3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs These cuts are favored for their rich flavor and moistness.

Marinade Ingredients

• 6 cloves Garlic, minced Essential for infusing flavor.
• 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice Tenderizes the chicken and adds zesty flavor.
• 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice Balances the acidity of lime juice.
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil Enhances the marinade's richness.
• 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano Adds an earthy, herbal note.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Provides a warm, nutty aroma.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adds a hint of spice.
• 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro For garnish.

Instructions

 

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
• Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or glass dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard leftover marinade.
• Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on grill grates, skin-side up. Bake for 35-45 minutes or grill for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
• Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

Notes

For variations, try different citrus fruits, herbs, or add heat with jalapeños. Serve with rice, beans, or salad.

Keyword Easy