Go Back

Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs

Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant Cuban citrus-garlic mojo for a flavor-packed dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 pieces
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cuban, Latin
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Mojo Marinade
  • 1 cup Fresh orange juice, squeezed from about 4–5 oranges Use fresh juice for best flavor.
  • ½ cup Fresh lime juice, squeezed from about 3–4 limes Use fresh juice for best flavor.
  • 6 cloves Garlic cloves, minced Garlic mellows and flavors the chicken during marination.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh oregano, chopped Or use 1 tsp dried oregano.
  • 1 tbsp Ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp Black pepper
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for extra heat.
For the Chicken
  • 6 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Non-negotiable for juicy results.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For drizzling before roasting.
  • 1 sprig Fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish.
  • 1 lime Lime wedges For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Make the mojo marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice, ½ cup of fresh lime juice, 6 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped oregano, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, and optionally, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined and taste.
  2. Coat the chicken thoroughly: Place all 6 chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or deep baking dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. Let the chicken come to room temperature: About 30 minutes before cooking, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature.
Cooking
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Discard the used marinade.
  3. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the chicken thighs.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
  5. Optionally, for grilling: Heat your grill to medium-high, oil the grates, and grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side.
Garnishing and Serving
  1. Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Encourage squeezing fresh lime over the chicken before eating.

Notes

Always use fresh citrus juice. Bone-in, skin-on thighs only. Score the skin before marinating for better flavor penetration. Rest the chicken after cooking for maximum juiciness.