Cuban Grilled Chicken

Posted on by Heather
Cuban Grilled Chicken
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Cuban Grilled Chicken

This is one of our favorite grilled chicken recipes, the marinade is quick to make and the longer the chicken soaks the more flavors it absorbs. I would highly recommend serving Cuban Grilled Chicken with the  Red Beans and Rice or a large salad for dinner.  

Grilling Tip for Cuban Grilled Chicken!

When you are grilling this chicken, heat the grill on high and put the chicken on for just a few minutes and flip.  Once both sides are seared, move the chicken to the top rack of the grill and turn the heat down to cook the rest of the way. 

Chicken Thighs or Breast? 

According to EatRight.org a 3-once chicken breast has about 140 calories and 3 grams of fat whereas the thigh has about 170 calories and 9 grams of fat. 

Why I prefer to cook with chicken thighs…

The breast is healthier however, I still prefer cooking with chicken thighs. 

They are a juicier cut of meat, which makes them taste better.  However, this also makes them A LOT easier to cook with in case you overcook them they will not be dry like the chicken breast. 

I have also found that chicken thighs absorb more of the marinade flavor making them a better compliment in most meals!   

I would love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below.

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Serving Suggestions:Cuban Red Beans and Rice or a large salad for dinner. 

Cuban Grilled Chicken

Ingredients to make Cuban Grilled Chicken

  • Chicken 
  • Olive Oil
  • Lime Juice
  • Cumin
  • Oregano
  • Garlic
  • Cilantro 
Cuban Grilled Chicken

Cuban Grilled Chicken

Try this delicious chicken marinade, great for grilled chicken.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: BBQ, Cuban, Grill
Calories: 323
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 -1.5 lb chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro paste or 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl with lid.
  2. Add chicken and put a lid on the container, shake to cover chicken thoroughly.
  3. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes. If marinating longer keep chicken in refrigerator up to 2 days prior to cooking.
  4. Grill on low heat for about 25 minutes or until chicken is done

Notes

Serve with Cuban Red Beans and Rice or a large dinner salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes gets the lime, cumin, garlic and oregano working, but up to 2 days in the refrigerator deepens the flavor. It is a great morning-of prep for an easy dinner.

Can I cook this without a grill?

Yes, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat works, or bake at 400 F for 20 to 25 minutes. Thighs are forgiving whichever way you cook them.

Why chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Thighs stay juicy over the low-and-slow 25 minute grill, breasts dry out more easily. If you prefer breasts, grill them hotter and faster and pull them right at 165 F.

What sides go with Cuban grilled chicken?

Rice and black beans are the classic pairing, and our Red Beans and Rice is a natural partner. Grilled vegetables or a simple salad keep it light.

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