Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs are a tasty treat! Think juicy chicken marinated in a flavorful mix of garlic, citrus, and spices. It’s like a party for your taste buds!
I love making these for dinner; the smell is amazing and it’s so easy! Just marinate, bake, and enjoy a plate full of joy. Pair it with rice, and you’re set! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are best for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use skinless thighs or chicken breasts, though they may dry out faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. If you prefer, canola or avocado oil work as alternatives. I personally love the flavor that olive oil adds to the dish.
Fresh Citrus Juices: The combination of orange and lime juice is key for authentic mojo flavor. If you don’t have fresh fruits, bottled juice works in a pinch, but fresh is best! Lemon juice can also be a substitute for lime.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for a punchy flavor. You can swap it for garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove), but the taste will be milder.
Herbs and Spices: Ground cumin and dried oregano bring warmth and earthiness. You could use taco seasoning if you don’t have these spices, which can add a nice twist!
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional for adding heat. Feel free to omit them or substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different kick.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Skin Is Crispy?
Crispy skin is essential for flavor and texture. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with skin-on chicken thighs to retain moisture while cooking.
- Pat the skin dry before marinating. This helps to avoid steaming in the oven, keeping it crispy.
- Roasting at a high temperature (425°F or 220°C) encourages browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even heat and air circulation.
- Basting halfway through cooking with the reserved marinade not only enhances flavor but helps crisp up the skin.
Let your chicken rest for a short time after cooking to ensure juicy meat and perfect skin. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken—overnight is best for great flavor! You will also need about 30 minutes for roasting. All together, set aside about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to enjoy this delicious dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mix is what will give the chicken its wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator. Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is perfect for roasting the chicken to get the skin nice and crispy.
4. Prepare for Roasting:
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Don’t forget to reserve the marinade for later—this will add extra flavor while cooking!
5. Roast the Chicken:
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and flavorful. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the skin looks crispy and golden.
6. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, garnish the chicken with chopped red onion and sliced green onions.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, just adjust the cooking time. They will generally need 20-25 minutes in the oven instead of bone-in thighs, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Orange Juice?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh orange juice, you can use store-bought orange juice, but make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars. You can also substitute with a mix of pineapple juice and a splash of lemon for a different but delicious flavor!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinade the chicken for up to 24 hours! Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator to ensure food safety. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 1 hour will still impart good flavor.
How to Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftover chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
