There’s nothing quite like the vibrant burst of flavor that comes with a well-cooked meal, and my Cuban Mojo Chicken with Charred Pineapple perfectly encapsulates that joy. As I stood over the grill one balmy evening, the air filled with the enticing scent of caramelizing pineapple mingling with tangy citrus, I knew I had stumbled upon a dish that could transport anyone straight to the sunny shores of Cuba.
Whether you’re a busy chef or simply someone who has grown weary of fast food’s routine, this recipe offers an exciting escape. The zesty mojo marinade effortlessly infuses the succulence of chicken with the sweetness of fruit, while the char adds a delightful crunch. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, a delicious reminder that homemade meals can reignite our love for the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this tropical delight that transforms dinner into a culinary getaway!
Why is Mojo Chicken With Pineapple a must-try?
Vibrant flavors: The zesty, citrusy marinade brings chicken to life, creating a flavor explosion you won’t forget.
Tropical twist: Charred pineapple adds a sweet, smoky layer that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a stunning dish that impresses.
Versatile options: Swap in your favorite fruits or chicken cuts to make this recipe your own.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering, this dish promises to delight everyone at the table.
Experience a taste of adventure with every bite!
Mojo Chicken With Pineapple Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – A tender and flavorful choice; feel free to swap for chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Essential for marinating and roasting, it boosts flavor and keeps the chicken moist; grapeseed oil is a great substitute.
For the Mojo Marinade
- Garlic – Vital for depth of flavor in the mojo; if you’re out of fresh, garlic powder will do in a pinch.
- Jalapeño – Offers a mild heat; adjust to your preference or swap for bell pepper if you want it milder.
- Cilantro – Adds a fresh note; use parsley if cilantro isn’t your thing.
- Limes – Their zest and juice provide brightness; you can substitute with lemon if necessary.
- Dried Oregano – Enhances the mojo’s herbal notes; fresh oregano can be used, increasing the amount by three times.
- Ground Cumin – Infuses a warm, earthy touch; it’s optional but highly recommended for an authentic taste.
For the Fruits
- Pineapple – It sweetens the dish and balances the acidity of the mojo; mango can be a delightful replacement for a different twist.
- Orange – Freshly zested and juiced to enhance the citrus profile of the chicken; swapping in lemon can keep the zing.
This Mojo Chicken With Pineapple will not just brighten your dinner table, but also your culinary spirits!
How to Make Mojo Chicken With Pineapple
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Prep Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and pepper. Set them aside to absorb those tasty flavors.
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Broil Fruit: On a foil-lined pan, toss the pineapple and orange pieces with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Broil in the oven until they’re lightly charred and caramelized, about 8-13 minutes.
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Make Mojo: In a food processor, combine chopped garlic, jalapeño, cilantro stems, and zests from the orange and lime. Blend with a pinch of salt, lime juice, cumin, and olive oil until you have a coarse paste.
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Broil Chicken: Lightly coat the seasoned chicken thighs with olive oil and place them on the grill or broiler. Cook until they are charred and cooked through, roughly 15-20 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Combine: Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl with the charred fruit and the mojo sauce. Toss everything together gently, allowing it to marinate for up to 1 hour for the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve: Slice the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle the mojo sauce over the top and garnish with the charred fruit along with a squeeze of fresh orange juice for an extra zing.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mojo Chicken with Pineapple is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the mojo sauce up to 24 hours in advance; this allows the flavors to deepen and infuse the meat beautifully. Additionally, you can char the pineapple and orange ahead of time, refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, be sure to cool the fruit completely before storing. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow through with broiling the marinated chicken for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and flavorful dish with minimal effort on a busy weeknight!
Expert Tips for Mojo Chicken With Pineapple
- Chicken Dryness: Ensure the chicken thighs are well-patted dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful, caramelized crust.
- Proper Marination: For the best flavor absorption, let your chicken marinate in the mojo for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, if you can.
- Managing Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your heat preference. If you’re not a fan of spicy, consider omitting it or swapping in bell peppers.
- Broiling Technique: Keep an eye on your fruits while broiling. Charred fruit should be fragrant and lightly browned, but avoid burning for a balanced sweetness.
- Serving Freshness: Serve your Mojo Chicken With Pineapple immediately after marinating to enjoy the vibrant flavors at their peak.
Mojo Chicken With Pineapple Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe according to your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Thighs vs. Breasts: Swap boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option that still delivers flavor.
- Tropical Swap: Replace pineapple with mango or papaya for a sweet twist that adds a unique flair to your dish.
- Heat it Up: Use serrano peppers instead of jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance!
- Herb Swap: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try using fresh basil or parsley for a different herbal note that still brightens the dish.
- Vegan Delight: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, marinating it in the mojo to absorb all those incredible flavors. Grill until charred for a delicious variation!
- Citrus Blast: Mix in grapefruit or lime zest; it can enhance the bright, tangy notes already present in the dish.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the mojo for an earthy, warm flavor that elevates the overall taste profile of your meal.
- Hearty Addition: Toss in some black beans or corn when mixing with the chicken and charred fruit for a heartier meal full of texture and flavor.
Let your culinary imagination run wild, and enjoy the flavors of Cuba in your kitchen!
Storage Tips for Mojo Chicken With Pineapple
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the mojo-marinated chicken without the charred fruit for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This will keep the mojo chicken moist and flavorful.
Avoiding Spoilage: If the chicken develops an off smell or unusual texture, it’s best to discard it to ensure food safety. Enjoy your delicious Mojo Chicken With Pineapple!
What to Serve with Mojo Chicken With Pineapple?
Create a tropical feast that tantalizes the taste buds and brightens your dinner table with vibrant accompaniments!
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Coconut Rice: This buttery and subtly sweet side pairs wonderfully with the zesty chicken, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
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Fresh Mango Salad: A refreshing medley of ripe mango, avocado, and lime complimenting the charred sweetness of the pineapple while adding a burst of freshness.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred to perfection, this sweet and smoky corn mirrors the grilling process of the chicken, enhancing the tropical experience.
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Black Bean and Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad that lends a hearty texture and earthy flavors, balancing the brightness of the mojo chicken beautifully.
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Steamed Asparagus: The nutty, slightly bitter notes of asparagus provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the dish, making each bite more dynamic.
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Zesty Limeade: A refreshing drink that echoes the citrus notes in the chicken, perfect for washing down the festive flavors of your meal.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Mojo Chicken With Pineapple will create a meal that is sure to transport everyone to a sunny paradise!
Mojo Chicken With Pineapple Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for Mojo Chicken With Pineapple?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are typically recommended for their tenderness and rich flavor. However, you can also substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just remember that breasts may require slightly less cooking time.
How do I choose ripe pineapple and oranges for my recipe?
Very! When selecting a ripe pineapple, look for a fruit that is firm but slightly soft at the base; the leaves should be green and fresh. For oranges, aim for ones that feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin free of blemishes. They should yield slightly to pressure, indicating juiciness.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Mojo Chicken With Pineapple?
To maintain freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, you can freeze the mojo-marinated chicken (without the fruit) for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly, as this prevents freezer burn and preserves flavor.
Can I freeze cooked Mojo Chicken With Pineapple? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Mojo Chicken With Pineapple, first let it cool completely. Then, place the chicken in an airtight container or freezer-friendly resealable bag, ensuring any excess air is removed. Seal it tightly and label the bag with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Are there any common issues I should be aware of while cooking Mojo Chicken With Pineapple?
Absolutely! One common issue is undercooking the chicken. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Also, to get a good char on your fruit, make sure to monitor it closely while broiling; it should be fragrant and golden, but avoid burning for a balanced sweetness. Finally, if you find your mojo sauce too runny, consider blending in a bit more olive oil or adding a touch of cornstarch to thicken it up.
Is this recipe suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions?
Very! This Mojo Chicken with Pineapple is gluten-free and can be easily adapted for those with allergies or dietary preferences. If you’re avoiding garlic or jalapeños due to intolerance, consider omitting or replacing them with alternative spices that suit your palate. Just be cautious if serving to guests with known food allergies, and inform them of the ingredients used.
Mojo Chicken With Pineapple That Brightens Your Dinner Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and pepper. Set them aside to absorb those tasty flavors.
- On a foil-lined pan, toss the pineapple and orange pieces with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Broil in the oven until they’re lightly charred and caramelized, about 8-13 minutes.
- In a food processor, combine chopped garlic, jalapeño, cilantro stems, and zests from the orange and lime. Blend with a pinch of salt, lime juice, cumin, and olive oil until you have a coarse paste.
- Lightly coat the seasoned chicken thighs with olive oil and place them on the grill or broiler. Cook until they are charred and cooked through, roughly 15-20 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl with the charred fruit and the mojo sauce. Toss everything together gently, allowing it to marinate for up to 1 hour for the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Slice the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Drizzle the mojo sauce over the top and garnish with the charred fruit along with a squeeze of fresh orange juice for an extra zing.