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Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

Zesty Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs for Your Next Dinner Adventure

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs with a tangy marinade of citrus and spices for an unforgettable dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Fresh Orange Juice Bottled juice can substitute in a pinch.
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice Provides tartness to balance sweet orange flavor.
  • 6 cloves Garlic (minced) Using fresh is best for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano (chopped) Can swap dried oregano at 1 tsp for every tbsp of fresh.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Enhances warmth and earthiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can work but lacks smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to your preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Optional; adds heat.
For the Chicken
  • 4 thighs Chicken Thighs Bone-in and skin-on for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Helps achieve a crisp skin when roasting.
For Garnish and Serving
  • Fresh Cilantro (for garnish) Optional.
  • Lime Wedges (for serving) Complements the chicken.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients (orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes) until well combined.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) about 30 minutes before cooking.
  4. Once marinated, remove the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Roast the chicken in the oven for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
  6. After roasting, allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Aim to marinate for 2 to 24 hours for best flavor. Pat chicken dry for crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).

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