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Mojo Chicken

Mojo Chicken: Savory Citrus Delight for Family Dinners

Mojo Chicken is a flavorful Cuban-inspired dish featuring zesty citrus, garlic, and spices for an unforgettable family dinner experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 Orange Zest Adds citrusy flavor; tangerine zest is a sweeter alternative.
  • 1 Lime Zest Provides tartness; lemon zest can be a quick substitute.
  • 0.5 cup Orange Juice Freshly squeezed; enhances moisture and flavor.
  • 0.25 cup Lime Juice Freshly squeezed; increases tang.
  • 0.25 cup Olive Oil Tenderizes chicken and adds richness.
  • 7-8 cloves Garlic Minced; adjust to taste, or use garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder Adds warm earthy tones.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Contributes herbal notes.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Coarsely Ground Black Pepper Gives a spicy kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Or to taste; balances flavors.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves Chopped; adds freshness and color.
For the Chicken
  • 1 Whole Chicken (approximately 3.5 pounds / 1.5 kg) The star of the meal.
  • Salt & Pepper To taste; elevates overall flavor.

Equipment

  • Roasting Pan
  • basting brush

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mojo Chicken
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure even roasting.
  2. Remove giblets from the chicken and rinse it under cool water. Pat dry and season inside and outside with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the zests, juices, olive oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cilantro until well combined.
  4. Stuff half of the orange into the chicken's cavity and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge.
  5. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 60-70 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes covered loosely with foil before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate overnight and baste while roasting for moist, flavorful chicken. This dish stores and freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep.

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