Cuban Grilled Chicken

why make this recipe

Cuban Grilled Chicken gives bright, fresh flavors from orange and lime. It cooks fast and works for weeknights or a small party. The marinade makes the chicken tender and tasty. You can serve it with rice, salad, or bread.

introduction

This recipe uses simple ingredients you might already have. The citrus and garlic give the chicken a light, bright taste that many people like. If you want a cool side, try the apple pecan chicken salad to go with it.

how to make Cuban Grilled Chicken

1. Mix the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Put the chicken breasts in the marinade. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil on a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Take chicken from the marinade and shake off the extra liquid. Cook each breast about 6–7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
5. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté until soft.
6. Serve the chicken with the sautéed onions on top.

Ingredients :

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced

Directions :

1. In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil in a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess, and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and saute until softened.
6. Serve the chicken topped with the sautéed onions.

how to serve Cuban Grilled Chicken

Serve hot with the cooked onions on top. Good sides are rice, black beans, a green salad, or warm bread. You can slice the chicken and put it in tacos or on top of a salad.

how to store Cuban Grilled Chicken

Let the chicken cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Cuban Grilled Chicken

• Marinate at least 30 minutes. For more flavor, marinate 2–4 hours.
• Pat the chicken dry before cooking so it browns better.
• Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
• Cook onions in the same pan to keep flavor and save dishes.

variation (if any)

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for heat.
• Use bone-in thighs instead of breasts; cook a bit longer.
• Grill on an outdoor grill for a smoky taste instead of using a skillet.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs work well. Cook them a bit longer until they reach a safe temperature.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate from 30 minutes up to 4 hours. Avoid much longer to prevent the citrus from breaking down the meat too much.

Q: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the marinade a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Mix the chicken in when you are ready to cook.

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