Baked Cuban Chicken is a deliciously flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Cuban cuisine to your kitchen. This recipe features chicken marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, oregano, and cumin, then baked to perfection until juicy and tender. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with bright, tangy flavors but also helps to tenderize the meat, making each bite incredibly succulent. The addition of sliced onions and bell peppers during baking adds a subtle sweetness and extra layers of flavor. This baked Cuban chicken is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it with rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a complete Cuban-inspired meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, skin side up. Scatter the sliced onions and bell peppers around the chicken. Pour any remaining marinade over the vegetables and chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve crispy skin.
- Serve:
- Remove the baked Cuban chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Baked Cuban Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with citrusy and aromatic flavors. This easy-to-make recipe offers a taste of Cuba that will bring warmth and sunshine to your dinner table, making it a favorite for any occasion.
