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
Scale
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
- â…“ 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.
