Name: Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1 teaspoon lime zest or lemon zest; 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice or lemon juice; 1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil; 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional); 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

There is something irresistibly vibrant and zesty about the Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe that immediately transports your taste buds to a sunny island getaway. This dish marries tangy citrus, fragrant garlic, and a hint of warmth from spices, creating succulent chicken thighs that are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing friends, this recipe promises a mouthwatering experience that’s both comforting and exciting, all while being surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black baking tray with eight golden-brown cooked chicken thighs arranged in two columns. Each piece has a crispy, slightly charred top layer with bright green sliced scallions and small pieces of purple-red diced onions sprinkled on top. There are thin slices of lime placed intermittently among the chicken pieces, adding a fresh touch. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface, and the edges of the tray show some baked-on juices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key for this Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe. Each element is straightforward but essential, combining to create a bright and balanced marinade that tenderizes and flavors the chicken beautifully.

3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Choose good quality thighs for juicy, tender meat that absorbs flavors wonderfully.
1/2 cup orange juice: Adds natural sweetness and citrus brightness to the marinade.
1 teaspoon lime zest or lemon zest: Provides a fresh, aromatic burst that enhances the citrus profile.
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice or lemon juice: Delivers tangy acidity that tenderizes and lifts the dish.
1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil: Helps blend the marinade and keep the chicken moist during cooking.
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup: Balances acidity with a gentle sweetness for caramelization.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings savory depth and signature garlic punch.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory notes without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional): Injects a warm, slightly spicy undertone.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers earthy complexity and Cuban flair.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (to taste): Enhances all flavors and balances the marinade.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.

How to Make Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mojo Marinade

Start by blending all the marinade ingredients together until smooth and well combined. This powerful mojo mix is the heart of the recipe—its vivid flavors will soak into the chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with that iconic Cuban zest.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs into a large zip lock bag, pour in the mojo marinade, and seal tightly. Massage the mixture to coat all the chicken evenly. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour, or ideally up to 24 hours, to let those bright, citrusy notes fully infuse the meat.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is perfect for baking the chicken so it finishes juicy inside but develops a beautifully caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Arrange Chicken in the Baking Dish

Transfer the marinated thighs and all their liquid to a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Avoid overlapping so they bake evenly, soaking in their own flavorful juices as they roast.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfectly cooked thighs every time.

Step 6: Broil for a Crispy Finish

For that gorgeous golden crust, baste the thighs with their juices and switch your oven to broil. Let the chicken broil for 5 to 8 minutes until it crisps up, adding irresistible texture and depth to the dish.

Step 7: Let the Chicken Rest

Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This step ensures all the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping each bite moist and flavorful.

How to Serve Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe

The image shows a tray filled with golden-brown cooked chicken pieces that have a slightly charred texture, giving a crispy look. The chicken pieces are scattered, showing different shapes and sizes with a glossy surface from cooking juices. Small pieces of chopped red onion and green spring onion are sprinkled on top, adding pops of color with their purple and green tones. Thin slices of lime with bright green edges and pale centers are placed between the chicken pieces, adding fresh contrast. The tray surface underneath is dark with a slight shine, enhancing the warm tones of the chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley add a burst of green freshness that complements the citrusy mojo beautifully. Add lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of tang that guests can enjoy according to their taste.

Side Dishes

Classic Cuban sides like steamed white rice, black beans, and fried plantains perfectly accompany the dish, soaking up those delicious mojo juices. Creamy avocado slices or a simple tomato salad also add refreshing balance and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs over a bed of coconut rice for a tropical spin, or slice the chicken and toss it into a salad with crisp greens and vibrant veggies. For a casual meal, pile the chicken into warm tortillas with some avocado and salsa for a Cuban-inspired taco night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This chicken freezes beautifully when stored properly. Place cooled chicken thighs with some of the mojo juices in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain moisture and flavor. You can also warm the chicken on the stovetop in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the baking time to avoid drying out the meat. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 to 30 minutes or until cooked through, and watch the broil time carefully to get a nice crisp without overcooking.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 24 hours?

While a longer marination enhances flavor, even marinating for just 1 hour gives the chicken a lovely boost of mojo flavor. Overnight or up to 24 hours just deepens the taste and tenderizes the meat further.

What can I use if I don’t have avocado oil?

Olive oil works wonderfully as a substitute and adds its own fruity notes. Avoid heavier oils like vegetable oil to keep the marinade bright and clean-tasting.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Absolutely! Grilling is a fantastic way to add smoky char and flavor. Just be sure to watch the cooking time closely and baste often with the marinade to keep the chicken juicy.

How spicy is this Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe?

This recipe is mildly spicy due to the cumin and black pepper, but it’s more aromatic and tangy than hot. You can easily adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or cayenne if you want a little kick.

Final Thoughts

This Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. It’s flavorful, vibrant, and satisfying with minimal fuss—perfect for those days when you want to serve something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and soon you’ll understand why this recipe feels like a joyous celebration on a plate.