Go Back
Grilled Cuban chicken breasts with char marks garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges

Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken

Citrus-marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection with Cuban spices, delivering tender and juicy results perfect for weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings.
Print Recipe Save to Pinterest
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Marinating Time 4 hours
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean, Cuban, Latin American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice about 2-3 limes
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice about 1 large orange
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for desired spiciness
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours. Do not marinate longer than 24 hours.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Discard the used marinade.
  5. Place chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving it. Flip once and cook another 6-7 minutes on the second side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature in the thickest part.
  6. Transfer chicken to a clean platter and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Pairs well with Cuban black beans and rice, plantains, or a fresh green salad. Do not marinate longer than 24 hours as citrus can break down the meat's texture. If you don't have a grill, use an indoor grill pan or oven broiler as alternatives.