Recipe: Cuban Grilled Mojo Chicken With Black Beans And Rice

Introduction

Cuban cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients. One dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Cuban cooking is Grilled Mojo Chicken with Black Beans and Rice. This recipe combines tender marinated chicken with a zesty citrus sauce, served alongside hearty black beans and fluffy rice. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the streets of Havana with this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Marinating the Chicken

To infuse the chicken with the flavors of the Caribbean, it needs to be marinated in a tangy mojo sauce. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Mojo Sauce

In a bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the mojo sauce over them, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling the Chicken

Now that the chicken has marinated and absorbed all the delicious flavors, it’s time to fire up the grill and cook it to perfection:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess sauce. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be nicely charred on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Serving the Dish

No Cuban meal is complete without black beans and rice. Here’s how to serve this flavorful dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Black Beans

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained and rinsed black beans, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Step 2: Plate the Dish

Spoon a generous portion of cooked white rice onto each plate. Place a grilled mojo chicken breast on top of the rice and serve with a side of black beans. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

Cuban Grilled Mojo Chicken with Black Beans and Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Cuba right to your dinner table. The tangy and citrusy marinade elevates the chicken, while the black beans and rice provide a satisfying and wholesome accompaniment. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of Cuban cuisine in the comfort of your own home.