Cuban Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe

why make this recipe

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is a simple yet delicious dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your table. This recipe features marinated chicken breasts cooked on high heat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an outdoor gathering with family and friends. The bright flavors and easy preparation make it a favorite among Cuban chicken breast recipes.

how to make Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
4. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
5. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

how to serve Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

Serve Cuban Pollo a la Plancha with rice, black beans, and a side salad for a complete meal. You can also add fried plantains or a lime wedge for added flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

how to store Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

tips to make Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

• For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but no more than 2 hours to avoid the chicken becoming too tough.
• Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Experiment with different spices or add a touch of chili powder for some heat.

variation

You can also make this dish with other proteins like shrimp or pork, marinating them in the same mixture. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as shrimp will cook faster than chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

2. What if I don’t have lime juice?
You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

3. Can I cook this on an outdoor grill?
Absolutely! Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is perfect for grilling. Just make sure to preheat your grill before cooking the chicken.

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

A simple yet delicious Cuban dish featuring marinated chicken breasts cooked on high heat for a juicy and flavorful meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Cuban

Servings 4 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade

• 4 pieces chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• to taste Salt and pepper

For Serving

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Place the chicken breasts in a zip-lock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken.
• Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.

Cooking

• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and add the chicken to the pan.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through and has a nice char.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Notes

For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour but not more than 2 hours. Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Experiment with spices for variation.

Keyword Caribbean recipe, chicken marinades, Cuban Pollo a la Plancha, easy dinner, Grilled Chicken