Name: Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 2 h 24 min
Cuisine: Cuban
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); 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges, as needed

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving something vibrant and packed with bold flavors, this Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is exactly the dish to bring sunshine to your dinner table. Juicy, marinated chicken breasts kissed by the grill impart a smoky depth that’s perfectly balanced by the fresh citrus notes of lime and orange juice. Each bite offers a lively dance of cumin, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne that excites the palate. Whether you’re new to Cuban cuisine or a longtime fan, this recipe is incredibly approachable and guarantees a delicious, memorable meal every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two large roasted chicken legs with crispy skin sitting on a gray metal baking tray. The chicken pieces have a golden brown color with darker grilled spots and a textured, slightly shiny surface from the cooked skin. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface, and a mix of light and shadow falls across the tray, highlighting the meat's texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet powerful, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant flavor profile and juicy texture of your grilled Cuban chicken. From the zesty citrus juices to the smoky spices, they come together in perfect harmony.

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice: Provides tangy brightness that tenderizes the chicken and lifts the overall flavor.
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds subtle sweetness and balances the acidity of the lime.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps coat the chicken for even grilling and keeps it wonderfully moist.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses an irresistible savory depth into the marinade.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth and a subtle smoky note.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds color and a gentle smoky flavor essential to Cuban cuisine.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a fragrant, herbaceous touch that complements the citrus.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a little kick and complexity.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives the chicken a subtle, warming heat—adjust to taste.
4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star ingredient, perfect for absorbing the vibrant marinade.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: For garnish—adds a fresh, herbal pop as the finishing touch.
Lime wedges: Served alongside for squeezing extra citrusy goodness over the chicken.

How to Make Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a medium-sized bowl. This marinade captures the essence of Cuban flavors and softens the chicken while making it irresistibly tasty.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your boneless chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the juiciest and most flavorful chicken, aim for 4 to 6 hours of marinating time.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

About 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high—somewhere between 375 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly heated grill is key to getting those beautiful char marks and locking in the flavors.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for around 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This guarantees your chicken is perfectly cooked and incredibly juicy.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once grilled to perfection, let your chicken rest on a platter for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite tender and moist. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges to add that final citrus burst.

How to Serve Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe

The image shows three grilled chicken pieces with a dark, crispy char on the surface, sprinkled with bright green chopped herbs. The chicken is placed on a white plate with a blue rim, and two lime wedges with a shiny, juicy green look sit on the right side of the plate. The chicken pieces have a rich orange-brown color with a slightly oily texture, laying close together on the plate. The background is a wooden surface, but it should be imagined as white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro isn’t just for looks—it brightens and freshens every bite of the grilled chicken. Lime wedges are perfect for adding an extra zing of acidity right at the table, giving that lively Cuban flair that makes this recipe shine.

Side Dishes

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with traditional Cuban sides like black beans and white rice, or you can keep it light with a crisp green salad. Roasted vegetables or grilled plantains also complement the smoky, citrusy notes exceptionally well, rounding out the meal with a variety of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe sliced over a bed of quinoa salad with diced mango and avocado for a tropical touch. You can also shred the grilled chicken and use it to top tacos or stuff into warm pita pockets with a drizzle of creamy garlic sauce. The possibilities are as exciting as the flavors!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra chicken, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. Properly stored, your grilled chicken will stay tasty and safe to eat for up to 3 days, making it an easy and satisfying option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When frozen, they’ll maintain their flavor and moisture for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. This method keeps the chicken moist without drying it out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken tough and rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly more forgiving on the grill and offer a richer flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and reach the right internal temperature.

How long can I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

While 2 hours is the minimum, marinating for 4 to 6 hours really lets the citrus and spices infuse the chicken deeply, resulting in a juicy, flavorful dish. You can even marinate overnight for a bolder taste, just be cautious not to go much longer as the acid can start to break down the meat too much.

Is it necessary to use fresh lime and orange juice?

Freshly squeezed juices add a bright, natural flavor that bottled juices often lack, making a noticeable difference in this recipe. However, if you don’t have fresh citrus on hand, high-quality bottled juice can be a convenient substitute in a pinch.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this chicken indoors?

Yes! You can achieve great results using a grill pan or a regular skillet on your stovetop. Cook over medium-high heat, flipping once the first side is nicely seared, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?

This Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe has a gentle warmth thanks to the 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but it’s easy to customize. If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne. For a spicier kick, feel free to add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or craving a taste of Cuba on your own, this Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Its vibrant marinade and perfectly grilled texture make it a dish you’ll return to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how easy it is to bring Cuban-inspired deliciousness into your kitchen!