If you’re craving a sandwich that bursts with bold flavors and has that perfect crispy, melty texture, the Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe is absolutely what you need. Juicy chicken marinated in a zesty citrus-garlic mojo sauce, stacked with creamy Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and sharp mustard on perfectly toasted Cuban bread, this sandwich is a celebration of Cuban-inspired comfort food done right. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleaser dinner, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with ingredients that might seem straightforward but are essential to achieving the authentic, vibrant flavors in this sandwich. Each component from the tangy mojo marinade to the melty Swiss cheese works together to create layers of taste and texture that make this sandwich truly special.
- Fresh orange juice: Brings natural sweetness and acidity to the mojo marinade, brightening the chicken’s flavor.
- Fresh lime juice: Adds a sharp citrus punch that balances the marinade perfectly.
- Garlic, minced: Delivers a pungent, aromatic depth essential for classic mojo.
- Olive oil: Helps infuse the marinade evenly and keeps the chicken juicy during grilling.
- Ground cumin: Introduces earthy warmth to the chicken’s seasoning.
- Dried oregano: Provides a subtle herbaceous note that complements the spices.
- Salt and black pepper: Key basics to enhance every other flavor in the marinade.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Offer a mild heat kick if you love a little extra spice.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for grilling and slicing.
- Swiss cheese slices: Melt beautifully and add a creamy, nutty contrast.
- Sandwich rolls or Cuban bread: The foundation with a crisp crust and soft interior for that authentic crunch.
- Yellow mustard: Brings tangy sharpness that pairs wonderfully with the rich cheese and pickles.
- Sliced pickles: Add an irresistible tang and crunchy texture.
- Butter: For grilling the sandwich to golden perfection.
How to Make Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Make the Mojo Marinade
Start by whisking together fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes in a bowl. This vibrant marinade will infuse your chicken with layers of tangy, garlicky goodness that’s impossible to resist.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, pour the mojo marinade over them, seal, and refrigerate for at least one hour (or up to four if you have the time). This step lets the flavors deeply penetrate the meat, keeping it juicy and flavorful throughout grilling.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, set aside to rest a few minutes before slicing thinly, locking in the juices and making it easy to layer on your sandwich.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of yellow mustard inside the sandwich rolls or Cuban bread. Then, layer the grilled mojo chicken slices evenly, add a slice of Swiss cheese on top, and scatter pickle slices over it. The combination sets the stage for a beautifully balanced flavor profile.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwich
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter. Place your assembled sandwich in the pan and press down slightly. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown, perfectly crisp, and the Swiss cheese melts into that ooey-gooey goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once grilled to perfection, remove the sandwich, cut it in half, and serve warm. The combination of juicy chicken, melted cheese, tangy mustard, and crunchy pickles will have you savoring every bite of this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe.
How to Serve Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh garnish goes a long way. Serve your sandwich with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a few thin slices of pickled jalapeño to add color and a hint of brightness that complements the rich sandwich flavors.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, black beans, or a fresh mango salsa make excellent companions. These balance the smoky, zesty chicken with sweet or tangy contrasts, turning your meal into a complete, festive feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the sandwich into smaller, appetizer-sized portions for your next get-together or picnic. Wrap them in parchment paper to show off the layers, or serve with a side of mojo sauce for dipping—the possibilities to impress are endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe, wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to two days, ready to be enjoyed again without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
While best fresh, you can freeze the grilled chicken slices separately from the bread and toppings. Store the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight before reheating to maintain juiciness.
Reheating
Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to bring back the crispness of the bread and melt the cheese once more. Microwaving is an option, but it may soften the crust and cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor. Just be sure to adjust grilling time slightly, and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What if I don’t have Cuban bread or sandwich rolls?
No worries! A soft baguette, ciabatta, or even a sturdy hoagie roll works well, as long as it can hold the sandwich fillings and crisp up nicely when grilled.
How spicy is this sandwich with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming them. You can omit them if you prefer a milder sandwich, and it will still taste amazing.
Can I make the mojo marinade ahead of time?
Yes! The mojo marinade tastes even better if it sits for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to marinate the chicken.
What’s the best way to slice the grilled chicken for this sandwich?
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling, then slice it thinly and against the grain. Thin slices make layering easier and ensure every bite is tender and juicy.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a homemade sandwich that sings with flavor. The Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe brings together bold citrus marinade, perfectly grilled chicken, and melty cheese in a way that feels both fresh and comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it — your friends and family are going to love you for making it!
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Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant citrus-garlic mojo marinade, grilled to perfection, then layered with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on authentic Cuban bread or sandwich rolls. Finished off with a buttery press on a grill pan for a melty, crispy delight, this sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Sandwich:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 sandwich rolls or Cuban bread
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- Butter, for grilling
Instructions
- Make the Mojo Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. This marinade combines citrus and spices to infuse the chicken with bright, bold flavors.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the mojo marinade over them. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, allowing the chicken to soak up the marinade and tenderize.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your outdoor grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juicy texture before slicing thinly for the sandwiches.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread yellow mustard on the inside of each sandwich roll or slice of Cuban bread. On the bottom half, layer the sliced grilled mojo chicken, followed by Swiss cheese and pickle slices for a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Place the assembled sandwich in the pan and press it slightly. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, and the Swiss cheese melts beautifully.
- Serve: Remove the sandwich from the pan, cut it in half, and serve immediately while warm to enjoy the melty, toasted goodness.
Notes
- For extra authentic Cuban flavor, use Cuban bread if available instead of sandwich rolls.
- You can add sliced ham for a more traditional Cuban sandwich variation.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or skillet works well to achieve delicious grill marks and flavor.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling helps keep it juicy and easier to slice.
- Use good quality yellow mustard for the best flavor balance in the sandwich.
- Butter the outside of the sandwich bread generously for a crisp, golden crust when grilling.
