The secret to unforgettable meals often lies in simple, vibrant flavors that transport you to sun-soaked shores. That is exactly what you get with this Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a fresh and zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, and aromatic spices create a dish bursting with character and comfort. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building the authentic flavor and texture that make this recipe so special. From the tang of fresh lime juice to the earthy warmth of cumin, every component is essential to reach that vibrant Cuban mojo profile.
- 2-3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The key to juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin.
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses bold, pungent warmth that elevates the marinade.
- 1/2 cup Fresh Lime Juice: Tenderizes the meat while adding zesty brightness.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice: Balances acidity with a subtle hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
- 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano: Brings a classic, herbal depth that’s essential in Cuban cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Offers a warm, nutty aroma that complements the citrus.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt: Enhances every flavor component beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Provides a gentle spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish perfectly.
How to Make Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mojo Marinade
Start by whisking together lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper in a medium mixing bowl. This mojo marinade is the heart of the recipe, marrying fresh citrus tang with herbaceous warmth. Be sure to blend it until everything is fully combined, so every bite of chicken soaks up the bold flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or glass dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated with that vibrant mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. For best results, let the chicken soak overnight, but if you’re short on time, allow a minimum of two hours. This step is where the magic happens, turning simple chicken into a flavor-packed delight.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Cooking
Whether you plan on baking or grilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off (discard leftover marinade—it’s not safe to reuse). This prepares the thighs for that perfect crisp and caramelization that will make your mojo chicken sing.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet if using the oven, or directly on the grill grates if grilling. Bake for 35-45 minutes or grill for 6-8 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is beautifully crispy. The result is chicken full of juice and a gorgeously charred exterior that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about five minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and bright herbal flavor that perfectly complements the citrus marinade.
How to Serve Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped cilantro is a classic finishing touch that adds freshness and vibrant green color. You might also consider a few thin lime wedges on the side to let everyone add a bit extra zing themselves. If you want to get adventurous, a scattering of sliced jalapeño or a light drizzle of softened butter can add a nice contrast to the bold marinade.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional Cuban sides like black beans and white rice soaked in garlic and onions, or a simple avocado salad. Roasted sweet potatoes or plantains add a lovely sweetness that balances the tart citrus notes, making each bite blissfully complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve these mojo chicken thighs over a bed of coconut rice, garnished with colorful diced pineapple and mango salsa. Alternatively, use warmed corn tortillas to create mouthwatering chicken tacos with a drizzle of your favorite smoky hot sauce. Presentation doesn’t have to be fancy to be impressive—just bold, bright, and full of life.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover mojo chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay tasty for up to 3 days and are just as delightful when eaten cold or warmed up.
Freezing
If you want to save the chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooked thighs tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the package so you know when to enjoy this flavorful treasure.
Reheating
Reheat gently in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the skin crispy. Alternatively, quickly warm in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that restaurant-quality texture and deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
You can use boneless chicken thighs, but bone-in, skin-on pieces yield the best flavor and juiciness. Cooking times will be shorter for boneless, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. The longer the chicken bathes in that citrusy mojo, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes! You can whisk together the marinade up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before using, and make sure to marinate the chicken fresh for the best taste.
What if I don’t have fresh citrus juices?
Fresh lime and orange juices are essential to the fresh, bright flavor of this recipe. Using bottled juices won’t deliver the same authenticity, but in a pinch, you can carefully substitute while adjusting for flavor balance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to infuse your dinner routine with a burst of Cuban sunshine, this Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch Recipe is your new go-to. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and delivers that perfect balance of juicy, tangy, and aromatic every single time. I promise once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved classic in my kitchen—and soon, yours too.
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Delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Made From Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 0 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
This authentic Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken infused with a vibrant marinade of garlic, lime, orange juice, and aromatic spices. Perfectly baked or grilled, these flavorful chicken thighs make a delightful main course garnished with fresh cilantro, ideal for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2–3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Marinade
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until fully combined and aromatic.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat your grill to medium-high if grilling. This ensures optimal cooking temperature for juicy and well-cooked chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for the oven method, or directly on the grill grates if grilling. Bake for 35-45 minutes until cooked through, or grill for 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is nicely charred.
- Rest and Garnish: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro before serving for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavor and tenderness in the chicken.
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs retain moisture during cooking and develop a crispy skin.
- You can use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 165°F internal temperature.
- If grilling, be attentive to flare-ups due to the marinade oils.
- This recipe pairs well with rice, black beans, or a simple salad.
