Description
This Grilled Cuban Chicken recipe features juicy, marinated boneless chicken breasts infused with a zesty blend of lime and orange juices, garlic, and traditional Cuban spices. Perfectly grilled to achieve a smoky char and tender interior, this dish is a flavorful and healthy option for a vibrant, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
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 the ingredients for the marinade and ensure the chicken breasts are ready and thawed if previously frozen.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well blended to create a vibrant marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4 to 6 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). Ensure the grill is hot enough to impart a nice char while preventing burning.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping once. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes so the juices redistribute evenly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges to add an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight to maximize flavor.
- If you do not have a grill, the chicken can also be cooked on a grill pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to tailor the spiciness to your preference.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling keeps it moist and tender.
- Serve with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete Cuban-inspired meal.
