Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Cuba with this mouthwatering Chicken with Mojo Sauce recipe! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with a zesty marinade that combines the bright citrus notes of orange and lime, the warmth of garlic, and the earthy depth of cumin. This isn't just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your dinner routine and impress even the most discerning food critics at your table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to create the mojo marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) or prepare a grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve the marinade for basting.
- If using oven: Place chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet, skin side up. Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with reserved marinade halfway through.
- If grilling: Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once and basting with marinade, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley, and drizzle with any remaining mojo sauce.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Don't rush the marinating process. The longer the chicken sits in the mojo sauce (2-4 hours is ideal), the more deeply the flavors will penetrate the meat.
- Room Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and more consistent cooking.
- Basting is Your Secret Weapon: Regularly baste the chicken with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and enhance its flavor profile.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and succulent.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve with rice, beans, or a crisp salad for a complete Cuban-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
