If you’re craving a sandwich that delivers bold flavor, irresistible juiciness, and a sunny blast of Cuban inspiration, let me introduce you to the Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich. This is the kind of sandwich that transforms an ordinary lunch into an experience: garlicky marinated chicken grilled to perfection, layered up with smoky ham, nutty Swiss, sharp pickles, and just enough mustard for a saucy tang. Grilled until golden and melty, it’s pure comfort with a tropical twist — and once you try it, it’s hard to go back to plain sandwiches ever again.

Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe celebrates simple, punchy ingredients that each bring something essential: zesty citrus, herby freshness, a little heat, and classic Cuban sandwich fixings. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with every bite.

Chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, they soak up all that mojo flavor and stay moist on the grill.
Orange juice (fresh if possible): Adds just the right amount of brightness and balances the savory marinade.
Lime juice: Sharpens the citrus edge and helps tenderize the chicken.
Garlic (minced): The essential Cuban kick—don’t skimp for maximum flavor.
Orange zest: Gives the marinade extra depth and a sunny aroma.
Oregano (fresh or dried): Adds herby notes that echo classic mojo sauce.
Ground cumin: Brings warmth and a subtle earthiness to the marinade.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the seasoning’s punch.
Black pepper: For a touch of heat and complexity.
Olive oil: Helps everything meld together and keeps the chicken moist as it grills.
Cuban rolls or hoagie buns: Soft but strong enough to hold all the magic inside; if you can find authentic Cuban bread, don’t hesitate.
Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and gives each bite a creamy richness.
Deli ham: Smoky, savory, and truly classic in any Cuban sandwich worth its salt.
Sliced dill pickles: For that crunchy, briny lift every great Cuban sandwich needs.
Yellow mustard: Adds a zippy sharpness that cuts through all the richness.
Softened butter: Guarantees a crisp, golden crust on every grilled sandwich.

How to Make Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich

Step 1: Whip Up the Mojo Marinade

This is where the magic starts. In a good-sized bowl or a zip-top bag, whisk together your orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, orange zest, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil. The aroma is pure sunshine! Nestle your chicken thighs into the marinade and give them a toss so they’re fully coated. Let them marinate for at least an hour, but if you have time, let them go overnight—the longer, the more flavor-packed your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich will be.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high so you get those gorgeous grill marks and a little char. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Grill the thighs for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they’re fully cooked and lightly charred. Resist the urge to slice right away! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle in. You can leave the thighs whole for a hearty sandwich or slice them for a neat, layered effect.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

This part is so satisfying: Split your rolls, then spread mustard on both sides for punchy flavor. Layer on the grilled mojo chicken, followed by 2 slices of ham and Swiss cheese apiece. Next, tuck in a few pickle slices for that irresistible crunch and pop of tang. Press the sandwich together gently so all those layers start to bond.

Step 4: Grill and Press the Sandwiches

Heat a skillet, griddle, or panini press over medium. Butter the outsides of the prepared sandwiches generously—trust me, this is the trick for that golden, ultra-crispy crust. Lay the sandwiches in your pan and grill each side for 3 to 4 minutes. If you’re using a skillet, press down gently with a spatula or another pan. The cheese should be fully melted and the bread gloriously golden brown. Serve your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich hot and enjoy the oozing, melty masterpiece you’ve created.

How to Serve Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich

Garnishes

Sometimes a simple sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs or a quick squeeze of extra lime makes the flavors pop even more. You can also scatter a little extra orange zest on top or add a few extra dill pickle slices just before serving for extra crunch and color.

Side Dishes

This sandwich shines alongside Cuban-style black beans, crispy plantain chips, or a fresh, zingy citrus slaw. For a picnic vibe, serve with kettle chips or a bright, tangy cucumber salad—anything with a little snap and acidity to match the lush flavors inside your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the sandwiches into halves or thirds and secure with a toothpick for easy sharing at a summer get-together. For a fun twist, serve them “slider style” on mini buns for parties, or wrap the finished sandwiches in parchment paper for a Cuban street-food vibe. Add cute flags or colorful picks for festive flair—these sandwiches deserve to stand out!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), wrap your cooled Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. The flavors deepen as they sit, making them a delicious next-day treat. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the grilled, unpressed sandwiches tightly wrapped in foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then finish by grilling or pressing until crisp and the cheese melts again. This ensures your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich will taste nearly as great as fresh.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your sandwich in a skillet or sandwich press to restore the crunchy crust and gooey cheese. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy and chewy—if you’re in a rush, use the oven or toaster oven for a crisper finish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but if you prefer breast meat, it will work—just make sure not to overcook so it stays tender in your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich.

What’s the best bread for this sandwich?

Authentic Cuban bread is ideal, but soft hoagie rolls or even a sturdy French roll will deliver great results and hold up to grilling and all those delicious fillings.

Can I prep the mojo chicken in advance?

Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight not only intensifies the flavor, it also lets you cook and assemble your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich even faster when you’re ready to eat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free rolls, all the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, letting everyone get in on the sandwich fun.

How spicy is this sandwich?

The classic recipe isn’t spicy, but if you want a little heat, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or a few slices of pickled jalapeños to your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give the Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich a try—there’s just something about the sizzling citrus chicken, melty cheese, and that irresistible crunch that keeps you coming back for more. Invite friends, fire up the grill, and get ready to share a sandwich that’s just bursting with Cuban flavor and good vibes. Enjoy every bite!

Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich recipe combines the flavors of citrus and herbs with tender grilled chicken, Swiss cheese, ham, and pickles, all pressed between slices of Cuban bread. A delicious and satisfying twist on a classic Cuban sandwich!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
½ cup orange juice (fresh if possible)
¼ cup lime juice
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sandwich:

4 Cuban rolls or hoagie buns
8 slices Swiss cheese
8 slices deli ham
½ cup sliced dill pickles
Yellow mustard to taste
Softened butter for grilling

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, garlic, orange zest, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high. Remove chicken from marinade and grill 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and lightly charred. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice or leave whole, depending on sandwich style.
Assemble the Sandwich: Slice rolls and spread mustard on both sides. Layer each sandwich with grilled mojo chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles. Press sandwiches lightly.
Grill the Sandwich: Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Butter the outsides of the rolls and grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cheese is melted. Serve hot.