If you have yet to discover the vibrant flavors of a Mojo Chicken Recipe, you are in for a treat. This dish bursts with citrusy, garlicky, herbaceous notes that bring juicy chicken thighs to life in the most delightful way. Perfectly marinade-infused and cooked to tender perfection, this recipe brings a taste of sunshine and zest to your table—whether for a casual weeknight meal or a special get-together. The magic lies in the combination of fresh herbs, zesty citrus juices, and fragrant olive oil that creates a sauce you’ll want to savor long after the last bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this Mojo Chicken Recipe shine. Each component contributes something special—citrus adds brightness, garlic brings depth, and herbs like cilantro and mint introduce a fresh, lively aroma. Every ingredient plays a role in creating a well-balanced and irresistibly flavorful dish.
- 3 Pounds chicken thighs: Choose bone-in for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
- 1 Tsp cumin: Adds a warm, earthy base note that complements the citrus beautifully.
- 1 Garlic clove (minced): Fresh garlic gives a punch of savoriness to the marinade.
- 1 Orange sliced: Slices provide bright, mild sweetness and help infuse flavor during cooking.
- 1 Lemon (sliced): Adds tartness and balances the richness of the chicken.
- 1 Lime (sliced): Lends a tangy zest to brighten the entire dish.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Helps carry flavors and keeps the chicken moist while cooking.
- ½ Cup mojo sauce: The star of the recipe, a vibrant blend of herbs, citrus, and garlic that transforms the chicken.
- Juice from 2 oranges: Provides a juicy, sweet-citrus base to marinate the meat perfectly.
- Juice from 1 lime: Adds a touch of sharp citrus acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Juice from 1 lemon: Enhances brightness and lifts all the flavors.
- 2 Garlic cloves: Extra garlic intensifies the marinade’s savory punch.
- ¾ Cup cilantro: Fresh cilantro injects an herbaceous, slightly citrusy freshness.
- ⅓ Cup mint: A bit of mint brings a subtle cooling contrast and unique aroma.
- ½ Cup olive oil: Used for blending the mojo sauce, this ensures a smooth, flavorful marinade.
How to Make Mojo Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mojo Sauce
Begin by blending the juices from the oranges, lemon, and lime with the garlic cloves, cilantro, mint, and olive oil to create the fresh and zesty mojo sauce. This sauce is the heart of the dish, packing a punch of flavor and aroma that infuses into the chicken. The combination of herbs and citrus juice creates a bright, fresh base that elevates every bite.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour over the mojo sauce, add the cumin and minced garlic, and toss everything together so each piece is well coated. Add the sliced orange, lemon, and lime on top to infuse the chicken with extra citrus notes. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking tray along with the citrus slices. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil to ensure crispiness. Roast the chicken in the oven for about 40-45 minutes until the skin is golden and the meat is cooked through. The chicken should be juicy and tender, with a lovely caramelized crust from the citrus marinade.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the Mojo Chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This rest time guarantees succulent chicken in every bite. Serve warm with your favorite sides or garnishes to complete the meal.
How to Serve Mojo Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of extra lime zest, or thinly sliced red chilies can add vibrant color and accentuate the bright flavors of your Mojo Chicken. A light drizzle of remaining mojo sauce over the top adds an extra burst of freshness and moisture.
Side Dishes
For a truly satisfying meal, consider pairing this Mojo Chicken with fluffy white rice or coconut rice to soak up the lively citrus sauce. A simple green salad with avocado or roasted vegetables also complements the flavors perfectly and balances the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the Mojo Chicken over warm corn tortillas with a dollop of sour cream and fresh salsa turns it into a festive taco night. Alternatively, shred the chicken to top grain bowls or use it as a flavorful protein boost in vibrant salads or wraps.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mojo Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before storing to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
If you want to save your Mojo Chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooked chicken tightly or place it in a freezer-safe container, where it will keep well for up to 2 months without losing its delicious flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to preserve moisture and prevent drying out. Alternatively, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
FAQs
What exactly is mojo sauce?
Mojo sauce is a zesty, herbaceous marinade from Cuban cuisine, typically made from citrus juices, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. It’s known for brightening and tenderizing meats with its bold yet fresh flavors.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can work, but remember they cook faster and can dry out, so watch the cooking time closely and consider marinating them a bit less to keep them juicy.
Is this recipe spicy?
This particular Mojo Chicken Recipe isn’t inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or fresh chilies to the marinade if you love a bit of heat.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal to let all the flavors really sink in and tenderize the meat.
Can I grill the Mojo Chicken instead of baking?
Yes! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky char to the chicken that pairs beautifully with the citrusy mojo flavors. Just be sure to monitor the heat and cook until the chicken reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Mojo Chicken Recipe will be like a breath of fresh air in your cooking routine. Its bright citrus notes, fresh herbs, and juicy chicken make it truly irresistible. Once you master this recipe, it will become a beloved go-to for meals that are both comforting and exciting. Trust me, once your kitchen fills with that sunshine-hued aroma, you’ll be hooked!
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Mojo Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Description
Mojo Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated and cooked in a zesty citrus and herb sauce. The marinade combines fresh orange, lemon, and lime juices with garlic, cumin, olive oil, and a combination of cilantro and mint to create a bright, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. This recipe is easy to prepare and yields a delicious meal suitable for a family of four.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 3 Pounds chicken thighs
- 1 Tsp cumin
- 1 Garlic clove, minced
- 1 Orange, sliced
- 1 Lemon, sliced
- 1 Lime, sliced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ Cup mojo sauce
- Juice from 2 oranges
- Juice from 1 lime
- Juice from 1 lemon
Herb Sauce
- 2 Garlic cloves
- ¾ Cup cilantro
- ⅓ Cup mint
- ½ Cup olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the herb marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the 2 garlic cloves, cilantro, mint, and ½ cup of olive oil. Blend until smooth to create the flavorful mojo sauce that will infuse the chicken with vibrant herbaceous notes.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add cumin, minced garlic, sliced orange, lemon, lime, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ cup of the prepared mojo sauce, and the freshly squeezed juices from 2 oranges, 1 lime, and 1 lemon. Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld deeply into the chicken.
- Preheat the oven and prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over the top.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The citrus slices will caramelize and add a beautiful aroma and flavor during roasting.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of sides, garnished with additional fresh herbs or citrus slices if desired.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor absorption.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but adjust baking time accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.
- The mojo sauce can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
