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Cuban Mojo Chicken

Cuban Mojo Chicken: A Flavorful Twist for Family Dinner

Cuban Mojo Chicken is a vibrant and zesty dish that transforms your family dinner into a flavorful fiesta with citrus and garlic undertones.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Marinating Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 whole chicken (5 to 6 pounds) The star of the show!
  • to taste salt Enhances flavor
  • to taste black pepper Enhances flavor
For the Marinade
  • 1 orange zest Always opt for fresh zest
  • 1 lime zest Elevates the citrus profile
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice Fresh is preferred
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice Offers sweetness and tartness
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil Adds richness
  • 8 cloves garlic, chopped finely Adds aromatic depth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Brings herbaceous goodness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Enhances with warm spice
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper Adds a kick
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Fresh herb flavor, optional
For Garnish
  • orange and lime slices Optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Combine orange zest, lime zest, orange juice, lime juice, melted butter (or olive oil), garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until blended.
  3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  4. Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before roasting.
  5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Tuck the wings and tie the legs with kitchen twine.
  6. Roast the chicken in the oven for approximately 1 hour. Check and cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
  7. Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Remove the chicken from the oven, tent with foil, and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Garnish with orange and lime slices if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor, marinate overnight. Use a meat thermometer to ensure juiciness and keep the skin crispy. Resting helps lock in flavors.

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