Ingredients
Scale
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works in a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
If you don’t have fresh citrus on hand, bottled orange and lime juice can work, but fresh always brings that bright zing that makes this dish sing. For a little twist, I sometimes swap cilantro for fresh parsley when the kids are less keen on the herbaceous notes.
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup—a little kitchen hack I rely on when time is tight.
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Reserve the marinade.
- Roast the chicken for about 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). Halfway through, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade for extra juiciness and flavor.
- For an extra touch, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes to crisp up the skin even more, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top if using.
From my experience, the key is not rushing the marinating step—this is where the mojo works its magic. I’ve also learned that a quick broil finish is my secret to that crave-worthy crispy skin that my kids fight over.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Cuban Mojo Chicken Thighs, recipe, cooking, food
