Recipe: Cuban Grilled Mojo Chicken and Pineapple Skewers with Rice and Beans

Introduction

Cuban cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and unique combinations. One popular dish that embodies the essence of Cuban cuisine is Grilled Mojo Chicken and Pineapple Skewers with Rice and Beans. This recipe combines tender grilled chicken marinated in a tangy mojo sauce, paired with juicy pineapple chunks, and served alongside flavorful rice and beans. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the colorful streets of Havana with this delicious and easy-to-make dish.

Ingredients

To prepare this mouthwatering Cuban dish, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Mojo Marinade:

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Skewers:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Rice and Beans:

• 1 cup white rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mojo Marinade

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

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken chunks in a Ziploc bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken chunks and pineapple chunks onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between chicken and pineapple. This will create a delicious combination of flavors.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the pineapple is nicely charred. Keep basting the skewers with the remaining marinade for extra flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Rice and Beans

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the rice and cumin, stirring for a minute to toast the rice. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy. Stir in the black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the grilled mojo chicken and pineapple skewers alongside the flavorful rice and beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an extra touch of Cuban flair. Enjoy this delicious taste of Cuba!

Conclusion

Cuban Grilled Mojo Chicken and Pineapple Skewers with Rice and Beans is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba to your plate. The tangy marinade, tender chicken, and charred pineapple create a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Paired with flavorful rice and beans, this recipe is a complete meal that will transport you to the sunny streets of Havana. So fire up your grill and get ready to savor the taste of Cuba with this mouthwatering recipe!