If you are craving a dish that combines vibrant citrus flavors with a bold spicy kick, look no further than this Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe. This recipe captures the essence of Cuban cuisine in every bite, marrying a tangy marinade with smoky grilled chicken that stays irresistibly tender and juicy. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard party or a casual family dinner, this dish promises to deliver a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe comes from its straightforward but perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building that signature tangy, spicy, and smoky taste and juicy texture that makes this chicken truly special.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully, keeping the dish healthy and tender.
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice: Adds bright acidity that tenderizes the chicken and lifts all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Contributes natural sweetness and a subtle citrus complexity.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps blend the marinade and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a robust, savory note that complements the citrus perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings an earthy warmth that’s a Cuban staple.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth, enhancing the grilled character.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a touch of herbal freshness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and peppery nuance.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjustable for your preferred spice level, adds that signature spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh, green vibrancy at serving.
- Lime wedges (for serving): To squeeze over for an extra citrus burst right before eating.
How to Make Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Create the Perfect Marinade
Start by whisking together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl. This simple but vibrant marinade is the heart of the Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe, providing both tang and heat that penetrate deep into the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Transfer the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. Make sure each piece is well coated, then seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the juiciest, most flavorful results, aim for 4 to 6 hours—this allows those tantalizing Cuban flavors to fully infuse the meat.
Step 3: Prepare Your Grill
Just before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for roughly 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat level is crucial for achieving that classic grilled char while sealing in juices.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Grill for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping occasionally, to reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Watch for beautiful grill marks and keep the flames in check to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is essential because it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite of your Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is moist and succulent.
How to Serve Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro sprinkled over the chicken adds a bright contrast and fresh aroma. Lime wedges served alongside give the perfect finishing touch, letting everyone tailor their citrus zest.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with traditional Cuban sides like black beans and rice or fried plantains. A crisp green salad or grilled corn on the cob also complements the strong flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and serve it atop warm tortillas with avocado, salsa, and a drizzle of sour cream for vibrant Cuban-inspired tacos. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens for a fresh, colorful dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve tenderness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts individually wrapped or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out the juicy, spicy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more forgiving on the grill, staying extra juicy and flavorful with this marinade. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it milder?
The cayenne pepper adds a moderate heat, but you can easily reduce or omit it to make the recipe milder without sacrificing flavor.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for several hours?
While 2 hours is the minimum to get some flavor in, marinating for 4-6 hours really allows those zesty and spicy flavors to penetrate deeply for the best taste and juiciness.
Can I prepare this chicken indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or under the broiler in your oven. Just watch the heat to avoid burning and try to mimic grill marks for that authentic presentation.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh lime and orange juice?
Fresh juice is ideal for its bright flavor and acidity, but in a pinch, bottled juices or a mix of lemon and a splash of pineapple juice can provide a close approximation.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe is truly a celebration of bold, lively flavors combined with perfectly grilled chicken that stays succulent and delicious throughout every bite. Don’t hesitate to try it next time you want to impress without fuss—once you taste it, it might just become your go-to grilled chicken favorite!
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Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 14m
- Total Time: 0h 29m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
This Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lime and orange juice, garlic, and a medley of spices including cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne for a perfect balance of smoky heat and citrus brightness. Grilled to juicy perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, it’s an easy, flavorful dish that brings a vibrant Cuban flair to your table.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)
Garnish & Serving
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk all ingredients until thoroughly blended to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, ideally 4 to 6 hours, to allow deep flavor absorption.
- Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C), which is ideal for achieving a nice sear while cooking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare Chicken for Grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade, gently shaking off any excess liquid. Discard the remaining marinade to avoid flare-ups and to ensure food safety.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts directly on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping occasionally. Monitor the internal temperature until it reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear, indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
- Manage Heat and Grill Marks: Keep flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking and attractive grill marks. Adjust the grill’s heat if necessary to prevent burning while maintaining a steady cooking temperature.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the grill and transfer them to a platter. Allow them to rest for around 5 minutes. This resting period helps retain juiciness by redistributing the juices throughout the meat before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 6 hours) enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop as an alternative method.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling seals in the juices for a moist, tender bite.
