Name: Grilled Mojo Chicken – 4 Flavorful Twists You’ll Love
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 Cuban sandwich rolls or soft baguettes; 8 slices Swiss cheese; 1/2 cup dill pickle slices; 2 tbsp yellow mustard; 2 tbsp butter, softened

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich is a game changer. The combination of citrusy marinade, smoky flavors, and tangy pickles brings the traditional Cuban sandwich to life in a whole new way. The marinated mojo chicken, grilled to perfection, adds a juicy and flavorful twist that complements the crispy, buttery bread. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a panini press, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. It’s quick, easy, and packed with layers of flavor that will make you crave it again and again!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 Cuban sandwich rolls or soft baguettes
8 slices Swiss cheese
1/2 cup dill pickle slices
2 tbsp yellow mustard
2 tbsp butter, softened

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Grilled Mojo Chicken – 4 Flavorful Twists You’ll Love

Directions

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and mix until the chicken is fully coated. Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour (overnight for the best flavor).
Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
Slice the Cuban rolls in half and spread mustard on one side of each roll.
Layer the sandwich with Swiss cheese, sliced mojo chicken, and dill pickle slices. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese, then close the sandwich.
Butter the outside of the sandwich and place it in a hot skillet or panini press. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Slice the sandwiches in half and serve hot, alongside chips or plantains.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 sandwiches
Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Overnight Marination: Let the chicken marinate overnight to intensify the flavors.
Different Cheese: Swap Swiss cheese for provolone or pepper jack cheese for a different twist.
Add Spice: For a spicy version, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sandwich.
Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based protein for a vegan version.
Extra Crunch: Add crispy vegetables like fried onions to the sandwich for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Wrap sandwiches in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat by grilling or in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
Reheating: Reheat sandwiches in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, though the result might be slightly less juicy. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts are a good alternative.

Can I make this sandwich without a panini press?

Yes, you can use a heavy skillet to press the sandwich down while grilling. Place a cast-iron skillet or another heavy object on top of the sandwich to help flatten and crisp the bread.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes for an even more flavorful sandwich.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check that it is no longer pink in the center.

Can I use a different type of bread?

While Cuban bread is traditional, you can substitute it with soft baguettes, hoagie rolls, or even ciabatta if needed.

Is this sandwich spicy?

The sandwich itself isn’t inherently spicy, but you can add heat by including sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a spicier mustard.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, you can grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or in a regular skillet if you don’t have an outdoor grill.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap Swiss cheese for provolone, pepper jack, or even cheddar for a different flavor.

Can I make this sandwich without mustard?

Yes, you can skip the mustard if you prefer a milder flavor or substitute it with mayonnaise or aioli for a creamier texture.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread rolls or baguettes to make this sandwich gluten-free.

Can I add extra toppings to this sandwich?

Absolutely! You can add extra toppings like sautéed onions, avocado slices, or even roasted peppers to further enhance the flavor.

How can I make this sandwich more flavorful?

For even more flavor, consider adding a layer of fresh cilantro or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce to the sandwich.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the chicken well after grilling and avoid overloading the sandwich with too much mustard or sauce to prevent sogginess.

Can I make the chicken on a stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken on a stovetop in a skillet. Just heat a little oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side.

Can I make the mojo chicken without marinating it?

While marinating adds more depth of flavor, you can cook the chicken without marinating. However, marinating for at least an hour will produce better results.

Conclusion

This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich is an exciting take on the traditional Cuban sandwich, offering zesty mojo chicken, melted cheese, and tangy pickles pressed into crispy, buttery bread. With various twists and options to suit different tastes, this sandwich is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this flavorful sandwich is sure to impress.