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If you’re craving something bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect for any summer cookout or weeknight dinner, this Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is an absolute game-changer. The marinade combines tangy citrus, smoky spices, and fragrant herbs to create juicy, tender chicken breasts that practically melt in your mouth. Whether you’re revisiting a favorite Cuban classic or discovering it for the first time, this chicken recipe is sure to become one of your top picks for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this dish. These simple but essential components work together to build layers of flavor, keep the chicken moist, and bring that iconic Cuban zest to your plate.
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice: Adds tang and brightness that tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Balances acidity with subtle sweetness for depth.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and keeps it juicy on the grill.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of savory flavor essential to authentic Cuban taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Provides earthy warmth that complements the citrus notes perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky complexity and vibrant color to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses herbaceous undertones iconic to Cuban cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors in the marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle, peppery kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness): Brings just enough heat to excite your palate without overpowering.
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly sized for even cooking and easy serving.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a fresh, bright finish when sprinkled on top.
- Lime wedges, as needed: For that final zesty squeeze at the table.
How to Make Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Marinade
Start by whisking together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl. This vibrant marinade is where the magic begins, infusing every bite of chicken with a beautiful balance of citrus, spice, and herb.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your boneless chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated, then seal or cover and pop it into the fridge. Patience here is key — let the chicken soak up all those bold flavors for at least 2 hours, but if you can wait 4 to 6 hours, even better.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to a medium-high setting, aiming for about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This temperature ensures a beautiful char without risking dryness, creating those perfect grill marks that make this dish so inviting.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off (discard the leftover marinade). Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and clear juices—that’s your sign that the chicken is cooked through and wonderfully succulent.
Step 5: Rest and Finish
Transfer your grilled chicken to a platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This brief pause lets the juices redistribute, keeping every bite juicy and tender. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top and add lime wedges on the side for the perfect finishing zest.
How to Serve Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is an absolute must here, adding a pop of color and a bright herbal lift that contrasts beautifully with the smoky, spicy chicken. Don’t forget the lime wedges—they give your dish that extra zing and enhance the citrusy notes in the marinade.
Side Dishes
Grilled Cuban chicken pairs amazingly well with classic sides like Cuban black beans and rice, plantains, or a simple avocado salad. These sides complement the bold flavors while adding contrast in texture and richness to round out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, slice the grilled chicken and serve it on a platter with an assortment of garnishes and sides for family-style enjoying. If you want to impress guests, plate the chicken whole alongside a scoop of Cuban-style rice and a drizzle of a tangy mojo sauce, finishing with a fresh cilantro sprig for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover grilled Cuban chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled promptly will preserve the juiciness and vibrant flavor you worked so hard to achieve.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this delicious chicken later, wrap the cooled grilled pieces tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2 months without loss of flavor, making it convenient to have ready for a quick meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a low-temperature oven or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Avoid high heat or the microwave if possible, as these can dry the chicken out. A quick squeeze of fresh lime after warming will bring back the bright citrus notes beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for grilling and will stay wonderfully juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through, usually a few minutes longer depending on thickness.
Do I need an outdoor grill to make this recipe?
While an outdoor grill is ideal for that authentic smoky flavor and char, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop or an indoor electric grill. Just make sure it’s preheated properly and cook the chicken evenly on both sides.
How spicy is the Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or skip the cayenne. For spice lovers, feel free to add a little extra for more kick!
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can mix the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to one day. Just whisk it again before using to reincorporate any settled ingredients.
What if I don’t have fresh citrus juices?
Fresh lime and orange juice are best for their bright, fresh taste, but in a pinch, bottled juices will work. Just make sure they are 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings vibrant flavors and irresistible juiciness to your table with every bite. It’s simple to prepare but packed with complexity and soul, making it the perfect dish to share with friends and family. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the delightful taste of Caribbean-inspired grilling right in your own backyard.
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Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Grilled Cuban Chicken recipe features juicy, flavorful boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lime and orange juice, garlic, and aromatic spices. Grilled to perfection for a slightly charred exterior and tender interior, this dish is brightened with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant, Cuban-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, as needed
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather all ingredients and prepare your marinade by whisking together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a medium-sized bowl until well blended.
- Marinating the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4 to 6 hours, to allow deep flavor absorption.
- Preheating the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to create a nice char without burning the chicken.
- Grilling the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid, and discard the marinade. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear, indicating the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Resting and Serving: Transfer grilled chicken to a platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes so the juices redistribute. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges to add a fresh burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
- Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor—up to 6 hours is ideal.
- Make sure the grill is properly preheated to achieve perfect grill marks and avoid sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
- Serve with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete Cuban-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
