Easy Mojo Chicken

Name: Easy Mojo Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 6 cloves garlic (peeled); 1 medium shallot (peeled and roughly chopped); ½ cup cilantro leaves (packed (plus more for serving)); 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (packed); 3 teaspoons kosher salt (or more to taste); 1½ teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 large orange (zested); 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed); ⅓ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 large lime (zested); ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 pounds chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)

This Mojo Chicken is vibrant, zesty, and aromatic! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a traditional Cuban-inspired mojo sauce featuring orange, lime, and bold spices. Perfect for grilling or baking, this protein centerpiece pairs well with cilantro lime rice, beans, or tortillas.

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Why This Recipe Works

With its bright, garlicky marinade, mojo chicken is perfect for summertime grilling! The sauce combines freshly squeezed orange and lime juice, providing a tangy base that tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with citrusy flavors.

Garlic and spices, like cumin, oregano, cilantro, and mint, add depth and warmth, making every bite flavor-packed. Once grilled, the result is succulent, juicy, and mouthwatering chicken thighs with a crowd-pleasing golden exterior, much like my grilled cilantro lime chicken thighs.

Mojo chicken with lemon and lime wedges.

This recipe is also unbelievably quick and easy to make, requiring 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of grill time. Plus, it can easily be scaled up for larger backyard gatherings and potlucks with friends and family!

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, which hold up well during marinating and cooking. Thighs are more moist and tender than breasts, making them ideal for absorbing the mojo marinade.
Garlic: Provides a savory, aromatic element characteristic of Mojo sauce. Use fresh garlic cloves for the best results.
Shallot: Adds a savory onion element without overpowering the marinade.
Cilantro & Mint: Fresh cilantro and mint create a bright, refreshing, and zesty flavor. You can use one or the other, but the combination results in the best mojo chicken.
Orange & Lime: Orange juice and zest provide sweetness and acidity, infusing the chicken with bright, citrusy notes. Lime juice and zest add a sharper, tangy citrus component, helping to tenderize the chicken.
Cumin: A key spice in Cuban cuisine, dried cumin adds a warm, earthy note that pairs perfectly with the brightness of the citrus.
Oregano: Dried oregano brings a slight bitterness with earthy, minty undertones.
Olive oil: Helps bring the marinade together and keeps the chicken from sticking.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine the orange juice and zest, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, and salt. Blend the marinade until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken: Reserve ½ cup of marinade, then place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least an hour, preferably overnight.
Preheat the Grill: When the chicken is ready, preheat the grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature while the grill heats.
Cook the Chicken: Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning half way, until the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Reduce the Sauce: Add the reserved sauce to a non-stick skillet and reduce over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
Serving: Once cooked, transfer pieces to a serving platter and drizzle with sauce. Add some fresh cilantro and lime wedges, then serve your mojo chicken hot with Instant Pot cilantro lime rice, beans, and corn or flour tortillas.

Substitutions & Variations

Chicken: You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks if chicken thighs aren’t available. You will need to adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Citrus Juice: Use lemon juice or a combination of juices for a unique flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: If you’re not a cilantro fan, try parsley or add extra mint instead.
Shallots: No shallots on hand? Try white or yellow onion or spring onions for a similar flavor profile.
Seasonings: Try adding coriander or a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating

Keep your leftover mojo chicken as fresh as possible by following these simple storing and reheating tips:

Fridge: Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Once cooled, you can freeze the chicken thighs in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Let the chicken thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat pieces in the microwave or oven until hot. If you’re using the oven, cover the chicken with foil to prevent it from drying out.

Expert Tips

Marinate longer for deeper flavor: Marinating the chicken overnight will intensify the flavors, as the acids in the citrus juices have more time to penetrate and tenderize the meat. I usually prep my mojo chicken the night before so it’s ready for the next day.
Grill on medium heat: Keep the heat at medium so it cooks evenly without burning the exterior. This ensures the inside reaches a safe temperature without drying out.
Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Charcoal vs. Gas Grill: For added smoky flavor, cook the chicken on a charcoal grill. The smoke adds another layer of flavor that complements the citrus and garlic.
Let the chicken rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with skin-on chicken?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken thighs for an even more flavorful and juicy result. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to over-marinate the chicken?

Yes, you can over-marinate chicken. This is especially true with acidic marinades, which can cause the meat to become mushy. I don’t recommend leaving it for more than 24 hours.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Let it thaw completely before marinating it for the best flavor absorption and even cooking.

If you enjoyed this mojo chicken recipe, be sure to check out some more fan-favorite chicken dinners like these:

If you try this Mojo Chicken, let me know what you think! Rate and review this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on Instagram @lenaskitchenblog!