Description
This Grilled Cuban Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of lime and orange juices, olive oil, garlic, and a flavorful mix of spices. Grilled to perfection, this dish delivers a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy taste inspired by Cuban cuisine, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal or weekend cookout.
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 Ingredient
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Garnish and Serving
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, as needed
Instructions
- Preparation: 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 the marinade.
- Marinating the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well 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 fully infuse the chicken.
- Preheating the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to impart a nice char without burning.
- Grilling the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, and discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Resting and Serving: Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for added zest and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control spiciness based on your preference.
- Serve with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete Cuban-inspired meal.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop as an alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban