As I was experimenting with flavors in my kitchen, I stumbled upon a vibrant memory of Cuban cuisine that whisked me away to sun-soaked beaches and lively salsa music. These Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs are a delightful fusion of tangy citrus and savory spices, marinated to create a dish that’s both tender and incredibly flavorful. Not only is this recipe straightforward, but it’s also quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, making it a perfect choice for any home chef looking to elevate their dinner game. The crispy skin adds a satisfying crunch, while the juicy, marinated meat will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to bring a taste of Cuba to your table? Let’s get cooking! Why is Cuban Mojo Chicken Great? **Vibrant, ** The explosion of citrus flavor perfectly captures the essence of Cuban cooking. Tender & Juicy, Marinating in a tangy blend ensures each bite is succulent and bursting with taste. Quick Preparation, Ideal for weeknights, you can go from fridge to table in under an hour. Crispy Skin, The roasting process guarantees a satisfying crunch that complements the moist meat. Versatile Serving, Pair with rice and black beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal that pleases all palates. Let these Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs turn your dinner into a flavorful fiesta! Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Ingredients • Discover the delightful elements that make this dish shine! For the Chicken Chicken Thighs – Bone-in and skin-on for the juiciest flavor. For the Marinade Fresh Lime Juice – Adds a vibrant acidity that enhances the overall taste; can be substituted with lemon juice if needed. Orange Juice – Brings sweetness and brightness; freshly squeezed is wonderful, but bottled can work in a pinch. Olive Oil – Moisturizes the chicken during marination; feel free to use avocado oil for a different touch. Minced Garlic – Packs a flavor punch; fresh cloves yield the best results. Ground Cumin – Infuses warmth and earthiness; coriander makes a great alternative if desired. Dried Oregano – Offers familiar herbaceous notes; you can use fresh oregano, increasing the quantity for freshness. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for highlighting the dish’s flavors; adjust to your taste. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add heat for those who like a spicy kick; simply omit if milder flavors are preferred. For Garnishing Fresh Cilantro – Adds a burst of freshness and color, elevating the dish’s presentation. These Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs ingredients will whisk you away to a tropical getaway on your plate! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Step 1: Prepare the Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. This zesty marinade will enhance your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs, so take your time to ensure all ingredients are well combined, creating a vibrant citrus blend. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs into a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour your freshly made marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor infusion. Step 3: Preheat the Oven Once your chicken has marinated, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Preheating ensures that once the chicken is ready, it cooks evenly for mouthwatering results. Step 4: Bake the Chicken After marination, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Discard any leftover marinade to avoid excess moisture. Allow the thighs to spread out without touching, ensuring that each piece can roast evenly and achieve that desired crispy skin. Step 5: Roast Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on the skin; it should turn golden brown and crispy, while the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This step is crucial for achieving both texture and flavor in your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs. Step 6: Rest Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Remember, patience here pays off by intensifying the flavor and moistness of your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs. Step 7: Garnish Finally, before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro over your beautifully roasted chicken thighs for a pop of color and a fresh flavor. This finishing touch brightens the dish and elevates it, making your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs not only pleasing to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. What to Serve with Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Transform your dinner into a vibrant Cuban-inspired feast with these delightful pairings that enhance the star of your meal! Coconut Rice: The creamy sweetness of coconut rice complements the tangy citrus notes of the chicken, offering a tropical touch that enhances every bite. Black Beans: Packed with protein and fiber, black beans provide a hearty contrast and a classic balance that beautifully pairs with the flavors of Mojo chicken. Fresh Avocado Salad: Crisp lettuce, ripe avocados, and juicy tomatoes combine to create a refreshing salad that cools palate against the zesty chicken. Mango Salsa: The sweetness of ripe mango and a hint of lime add a bright, fruity element that elevates the savory richness of the Mojo chicken and adds a delicious flavor explosion. Roasted Plantains: The caramelized sweetness of roasted plantains creates a delightful contrast in texture, enhancing your dish’s overall experience and adding depth to your plate. Chimichurri Sauce: A tangy, herbaceous sauce drizzled over the chicken amplifies the flavors, combining freshness with the bold zest of the marinade for an unforgettable finish. Crispy Tortillas: Serve some warm, crispy tortillas on the side for a satisfying crunch. They’re perfect for scooping up chicken and sides, creating a handheld treat. Whipped Feta Dip: Creamy feta mixed with herbs makes a decadent dip that sharpens the flavors of the chicken while adding a new texture to the meal. Red Wine Sangria: Sip on a refreshing red wine sangria infused with tropical fruits, offering a vibrant accompaniment that’ll get everyone reminiscing about summer evenings. Storage Tips for Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Room Temperature: Allow Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs to cool completely before storing them. Do not leave them out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re tightly sealed to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: To retain the crispy skin, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through to achieve that delightful texture. Expert Tips for Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer, up to 4 hours, gives a deeper flavor in your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs. Crispy Skin: Always roast the thighs skin-side up to achieve that irresistible crispiness; this ensures moisture stays locked in the meat. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out. Avoid Overcrowding: When placing chicken on the baking sheet, make sure they aren’t touching; this helps them roast evenly and lets the skin get crispy. Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lime and orange juice for the marinade; the fresh citrus enhances the dish’s vibrancy and flavor profile. Variations & Substitutions for Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Feel free to personalize this recipe and make it your own with these delicious twists! Chicken Cut: Use drumsticks or boneless breasts for a different texture; each offers its own unique flavors. Citrus Options: Try swapping grapefruit or blood orange juice for a creative citrus kick; the acidity gives a fun twist. Herb Twists: Add fresh thyme or parsley to the marinade for a refreshing flavor boost; they bring an extra layer of complexity. Oil Alternatives: Substitute avocado oil for olive oil to enrich the flavor; it adds a unique creaminess that enhances every bite. Heat Levels: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your liking; omit for milder flavors, or double the amount for a spicy surprise! Vegetable Pairing: Toss in bell peppers or onions around the chicken while roasting for added color and nutrition; they caramelize beautifully and enhance flavor. Gluten-Free Options: Ensure the marinade is gluten-free by checking the ingredient labels; this keeps it accessible for everyone. Serving Ideas: Serve the chicken alongside rice and black beans or a fresh salad; these complements enhance the vibrant flavors even more. With these variations, you can make these Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs a fresh delight every time you cook! Make Ahead Options These Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs are ideal for meal prep, making dinner on those busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a more intense taste. Simply prepare the marinade as directed, coat the chicken, and refrigerate in a sealed bag or dish. If desired, you can also chop fresh cilantro and store it in the fridge to have it ready for garnishing before serving. When it’s time to eat, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the marinated chicken for 35-40 minutes. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs with minimal effort! Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe limes and oranges for the marinade? Absolutely! When selecting limes and oranges, look for fruits that feel heavy for their size and have a slightly glossy skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as they indicate overripeness. A ripe lime will smell fragrant and have a slight give when squeezed, which indicates juiciness. Freshly squeezed juice from ripe fruits will truly elevate the flavor of your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs. What is the best way to store leftover Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs? Very! Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely to room temperature, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep the flavors fresh. If you want to enjoy them later, you can easily freeze them as well. Can I freeze Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each piece in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible and label the container with the date. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat following the reheating instructions. What should I do if my chicken skin isn’t crispy after baking? The key to achieving crispy skin is ensuring the chicken is baked skin-side up and spaced out on the baking sheet. If your skin doesn’t crisp up, it might be due to overcrowding. Next time, keep the thighs from touching. You can also try patting the skin dry with paper towels before marinating and baking. Additionally, roasting at a higher temperature or giving a quick broil at the end can help achieve that delightful crunch. Are there any dietary considerations for Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs? Very! This recipe is inherently gluten-free, but those with specific allergies or sensitivities should be mindful of the ingredients used, especially if substituting any. For instance, if you have a citrus allergy, consider using just herbs or spice seasoning blends instead of the citrus marination. When serving, ensure to offer a complete meal that addresses all diners’ dietary needs, like rice and beans for a wholesome accompaniment. Can pets eat the leftover Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs? Very! While plain cooked chicken is often fine for dogs, make sure to avoid feeding them any skin or meat that has been seasoned with spices, particularly garlic, which is harmful to dogs. If you want to share, remove any skin and seasonings, and offer them just the plain, cooked chicken. Always check with your veterinarian about your pet’s specific dietary needs. Savory Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs for Flavor Lovers This Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs recipe is a delightful fusion of citrus and spices, creating a flavorful, tender dish perfect for any dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 thighsCourse: ChickenCuisine: CubanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in and skin-on for the juiciest flavor.For the Marinade1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice Can be substituted with lemon juice if needed.1/4 cup Orange Juice Freshly squeezed is wonderful, but bottled can work.1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be a substitute.3 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh cloves yield the best results.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Coriander makes a great alternative.1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Use fresh oregano, increasing the quantity for freshness.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your taste.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to your taste.1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a spicy kick.For Garnishing1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Adds freshness and color. Equipment medium bowlWhiskResealable bag or shallow dishBaking sheetOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.Place the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs into a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour your freshly made marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 4 hours is ideal.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs.Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Discard any leftover marinade.Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 35–40 minutes.Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes.Sprinkle fresh cilantro over your beautifully roasted chicken thighs before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1thighCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 25gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 250mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, let the chicken marinate for longer and ensure to use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Store leftovers properly in the fridge or freezer for optimal freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
