This Easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha is a juicy grilled chicken dish marinated in garlic, lime, and spices. It’s simple yet bursting with flavor, perfect for any meal!
The best part? It’s so quick to make! I love serving it with rice and beans, making a colorful plate that always impresses my friends. You’ll feel like a pro chef in no time! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work great too! Just remember they may need a little longer to cook.
Olive Oil: Using olive oil adds flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist. You can substitute it with avocado oil if you have that on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for a robust flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder in a pinch works, but the taste will be milder.
Spices: Ground cumin, oregano, and paprika give this dish its distinct Cuban flavor. Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika for an extra layer of taste!
Onions: Standard yellow onions are perfect for this dish, but you could swap in red onions for a bit of sweetness or caramelized shallots for a gourmet touch.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Grilled Chicken?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken can be tricky, but it’s easy when you follow a few steps. First, always pound your chicken thin. This ensures even cooking and helps it stay juicy.
- Marinade the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Longer is better! It allows flavors to soak in and makes the chicken more tender.
- Make sure your skillet or grill pan is hot. This helps to achieve a nice sear!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This will prevent steaming and help you get that nice golden finish.
Lastly, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This locks in juices, making every bite more flavorful!
Easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 2 limes
For the Toppings:
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings
- Lime wedges, for garnish
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Black beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes for cooking. Altogether, you can have this delicious Cuban Pollo A La Plancha ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and the juice of 2 limes. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed to make a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, and if you have time, up to 2 hours for the best flavor!
3. Sauté the Onions:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them for about 8-10 minutes, or until they become translucent and a bit caramelized. Once done, remove the onions from the pan and set them aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Using the same pan, add the marinated chicken breasts. Cook each side for about 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked fully through and has nice, charred edges. It’s okay to check with a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Combine and Serve:
After the chicken is done, return the cooked onions to the pan to warm them through with the chicken for about 1-2 minutes. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the sautéed onions and enjoy it alongside cooked white rice and black beans.
6. Garnishing:
Don’t forget to add some lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of lime before you dig in!
Enjoy this flavorful and juicy Cuban-style grilled chicken dish that’s perfect for any meal! It’s quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Pollo A La Plancha Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just keep in mind they may take a little longer to cook—aim for around 6-8 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you don’t have ground cumin or oregano, you can substitute with a different spice blend like taco seasoning or Italian seasoning. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator, which will enhance the flavor. Just be sure to cook it within 2 days for the best quality. The sautéed onions can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving!
