This Easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha features juicy grilled chicken seasoned with zesty spices. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for any meal!
I love serving it with a side of rice and beans; it makes my dinner feel fancy without the fuss! Plus, who doesn’t love a tasty, easy chicken dish? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs for more moisture and flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or vegetable oil can work well too.
Spices: The cumin, oregano, and paprika create a true Cuban flavor. If you want a little heat, try adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. Adjust based on your taste!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives the chicken a zesty kick. If you don’t have limes, you could substitute with lemon juice, although the flavor will be slightly different.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with the right techniques, you’ll get juicy and flavorful results!
- First, marinate the chicken. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist while cooking.
- Next, make sure your grill is preheated. A hot grill helps to sear the chicken quickly, locking in flavors.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give each chicken breast space to cook evenly and develop those lovely grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have incredible grilled chicken that everyone will love! Enjoy your meal with the delightful sides! 🍽️
Easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime, plus lime wedges for serving
For the Toppings:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Black beans, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep (including marinating) and 10-15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 25-30 minutes, plus optional marinating time of up to 2 hours for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. This flavorful mixture will be used to marinate the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and set it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time—this deepens the flavor!
3. Heat the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those lovely grill marks and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
4. Sauté the Onions:
In a skillet, add a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and lightly caramelized. Once they’re done, set them aside.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and place it on the preheated grill. Grill each breast for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is nicely charred and fully cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill. Top each chicken breast with the sautéed onions. Serve alongside a generous portion of cooked white rice and black beans for a complete meal.
7. Garnish and Enjoy!
Finally, don’t forget to add lime wedges on the side to give each bite a refreshing burst of acidity. Enjoy your flavorful, easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha!
FAQ about Easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will give you a slightly richer flavor and more moisture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice and black beans, but you can also serve it with a side salad, plantains, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 1 to 2 hours. If you need to marinate it overnight, that’s fine too, just be careful not to go too long or the acidity from the lime can make the chicken mushy.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
