Grilled

Cuban Grilled Chicken

Name: Cuban Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin; 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tbsp (30g) freshly squeezed lime juice

By Otto Larkin · June 19, 2026 · Grilled

Prep15 min

Cook20 min

Total40 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I tasted Cuban Grilled Chicken at a family gathering. The combination of citrus, spices, and grilled flavors was love at first bite. Since then, I've been perfecting my own recipe to share with you. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

The beauty of Cuban Grilled Chicken lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone wanting more. The key is in the marinade, which combines the brightness of citrus with the warmth of spices.

In this recipe, we'll walk through the steps to create a delicious and authentic Cuban Grilled Chicken dish. From the marinade to the grill, we'll cover it all. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients.

So, what makes this recipe special? For starters, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. The marinade is also versatile, allowing you to adjust the level of heat and flavor to your liking.

Whether you're looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a impressive dish to serve at your next outdoor gathering, Cuban Grilled Chicken is the perfect choice. So, let's get started and explore the flavors of Cuba in the comfort of your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and prep time.
The marinade is versatile, allowing you to adjust the level of heat and flavor to your liking.
Cuban Grilled Chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.
The dish is packed with flavor, making it a great option for those looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The recipe is easy to scale up or down, making it perfect for large or small gatherings.
The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great option for meal prep or lunch the next day.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to a great Cuban Grilled Chicken lies in the marinade. By combining citrus juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices, we create a powerful flavor profile that penetrates deep into the meat. The acidity in the citrus helps to break down the proteins, making the chicken tender and juicy.

Another key factor is the grilling process. By cooking the chicken over medium-high heat, we achieve a nice char on the outside, while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. The heat also helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the meat, creating a rich and savory flavor.

Finally, the resting time is crucial. By letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling, we allow the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender and flavorful. This step is often overlooked, but it makes a huge difference in the final result.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to ingredients, we're keeping it simple and authentic. We'll be using a combination of citrus, spices, garlic, and olive oil to create a flavorful marinade. For the chicken, we recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose fresh and high-quality items. Fresh citrus juice and garlic will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish. Also, look for spices that are fresh and aromatic, as they will add depth and warmth to the marinade.

1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighsWe recommend using chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, as they are tender and flavorful. You can also use a combination of both, depending on your preference.
1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juiceFreshly squeezed orange juice is essential for this recipe, as it adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the marinade. You can also use a combination of orange and lime juice for added depth.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilOlive oil is used to add moisture and flavor to the marinade. We recommend using a high-quality olive oil that is fresh and aromatic.
4 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a key ingredient in the marinade, as it adds a pungent and savory flavor. Be sure to mince the garlic finely, as this will help it distribute evenly throughout the meat.
1 tsp (5g) ground cuminGround cumin is used to add warmth and depth to the marinade. We recommend using fresh and aromatic cumin, as this will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
1 tsp (5g) smoked paprikaSmoked paprika is used to add a smoky and savory flavor to the marinade. This ingredient is optional, but it adds a nice depth and complexity to the dish.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt is used to enhance the flavor of the dish and help bring out the natural flavors of the chicken. We recommend using a high-quality salt that is fresh and aromatic.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper is used to add a subtle and savory flavor to the dish. We recommend using freshly ground black pepper, as this will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantroChopped fresh cilantro is used to add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish. We recommend using fresh and aromatic cilantro, as this will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
2 tbsp (30g) freshly squeezed lime juiceFreshly squeezed lime juice is used to add a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish. We recommend using fresh and aromatic lime juice, as this will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowl or zip-top plastic bagWhisk or spoonMeat thermometerGrill or grill panTongs or spatulaCutting boardKnife

How to Make Cuban Grilled Chicken

1
In a large bowl or zip-top plastic bag, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2
Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it is fully coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4
Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5
While the chicken is resting, whisk together lime juice and chopped cilantro in a small bowl. Brush the mixture evenly over the chicken.
6
Slice the chicken into thin strips and serve immediately. You can garnish with additional cilantro, if desired.
7
To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
8
If using a grill pan, make sure it is preheated to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9
To add extra flavor, you can brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before grilling.
10
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing, to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
11
Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or roasted vegetables.
12
To make ahead, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then grill and serve when ready.

Expert Tips

Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, as this will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
Don't over-marinate the chicken, as this can make it tough and dry. 2 hours to overnight is the perfect amount of time.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing, to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
To add extra flavor, you can brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before grilling.
Experiment with different types of citrus juice, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique flavor twist.
For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeno or serrano pepper to the marinade.
To make the dish more substantial, serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-marinating the chicken, which can make it tough and dry.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing, which can make it dry and tough.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor of the dish.
Grilling the chicken at too high a heat, which can burn the outside before the inside is cooked through.
Not brushing the chicken with olive oil and sprinkling with salt and pepper before grilling, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

To add a smoky flavor, add 1-2 tbsp of liquid smoke to the marinade.
For a spicy kick, add 1-2 diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the marinade.
To make the dish more substantial, serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
Experiment with different types of citrus juice, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique flavor twist.
Add 1-2 tbsp of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the marinade for added flavor.
For a Mediterranean twist, add 1-2 tbsp of chopped kalamata olives and 1-2 tbsp of artichoke hearts to the marinade.
To make the dish more indulgent, serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.

What to Serve With Cuban Grilled Chicken

Cuban Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some of our favorites include roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, and a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. You can also serve with rice, beans, or roasted potatoes for a more filling meal.

For a fun and flavorful twist, try serving with a side of grilled pineapple or mango. The sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken. You can also add some crusty bread or grilled corn on the cob to round out the meal.

Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sproutsSide salad with a tangy vinaigretteRice, beans, or roasted potatoesGrilled pineapple or mangoCrusty bread or grilled corn on the cob

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Cuban Grilled Chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply marinate the chicken in the refrigerator, then grill and serve when ready.

To freeze, place the marinated chicken in a zip-top plastic bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then grill and serve.

To reheat, place the cooked chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also reheat on the grill or in a skillet on the stovetop. To prevent drying out, make sure to brush the chicken with olive oil and cover with foil during reheating.

When storing leftovers, make sure to cool the chicken to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. This will help prevent bacterial growth and keep the chicken fresh for a longer period of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, as they are tender and flavorful. You can also use a combination of both, depending on your preference.

Can I use bottled citrus juice instead of fresh?

While bottled citrus juice can be convenient, it's not recommended for this recipe. Freshly squeezed juice has a brighter, more vibrant flavor that makes a big difference in the dish.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

We recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight, but no more than 24 hours. Over-marinating can make the chicken tough and dry.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, you can grill the chicken indoors using a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop. Simply preheat the pan to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What's the best way to serve the chicken?

Can I make the dish ahead?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply marinate the chicken in the refrigerator, then grill and serve when ready.

How do I reheat the chicken?

To reheat the chicken, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also reheat on the grill or in a skillet on the stovetop. To prevent drying out, make sure to brush the chicken with olive oil and cover with foil during reheating.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Simply place the marinated chicken in a zip-top plastic bag or airtight container and store in the freezer. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then grill and serve.

The Full Recipe

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