Name: Cuban Pollo a la Plancha
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 36 min
Cuisine: cuban
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/3 cup mojo marinade; 2 teaspoons sazon completa; 2–3 tablespoons neutral oil or unsalted butter; Optional: sliced sautéed onions

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One of the Most Flavorful, Juicy Chicken Breast Recipes — Guaranteed

Who said chicken breast has to be dull? Cuban Pollo a la Plancha takes simple ingredients—citrus, spices, and a griddle—and turns them into something extraordinary. With its mojo marinade full of tangy, garlicky flavor and a quick sear that locks in juiciness, this dish feels both easy and festive. Top it off with sweet, sautéed onions, and suddenly your weeknight meal has a Cuban twist of sunshine and depth.

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken stays incredibly moist thanks to a citrusy mojo and easy flattening
Just 20 minutes of marinating for maximum flavor impact
Quick cooking—perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests
Super versatile—serve with rice, beans, salad, or plantains
Simple enough for anyone, yet tastes elegant and restaurant-quality

Tip: you can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/3 cup mojo marinade (homemade or store-bought)
2 teaspoons homemade sazon completa (or your favorite Latin seasoning)
2–3 tablespoons neutral oil or unsalted butter (for pan frying)
Sliced sautéed onions (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Flatten the chicken
On a cutting board, place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound to about 1/4-inch thick. Flattening helps the meat cook quickly and stay tender.
Marinate briefly
Transfer the chicken to a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over, then season with sazon completa. Flip to coat evenly. Let marinate at room temperature for about 20 minutes (or up to 1 hour if you have time).
Heat the pan
Warm a griddle, grill pan, or large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil or butter and let it shimmer.
Cook the chicken
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, transfer chicken to the hot surface, letting excess marinade drip off. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the meat is golden brown and cooked through.
Serve
Top with sautéed onions if desired, then plate alongside white rice, black beans, or sweet plantains to round out the Cuban flavors.

Variations

Add a pinch of cayenne or sliced jalapeños to the mojo marinade for heat
Marinate in the fridge for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor
Finish with fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness
Grill instead of pan-searing for smoky depth
Swap some of the mojo with fresh lime juice for added citrus kick

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or marinade
Make-ahead tip: Marinate chicken the night before to save time

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s in mojo marinade?

Typically a blend of citrus juice (like orange and lime), garlic, oregano, oil, and salt. Bottled versions are great in a pinch.

Do I really need to pound the chicken?

Yes. It ensures even cooking and helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

What is sazon completa?

A Latin spice blend that usually includes garlic powder, oregano, cumin, and salt. You can substitute your favorite all-purpose Latin seasoning.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely. Adjust cook time slightly depending on thickness.

How long do I cook each side?

Around 2–3 minutes per side on medium heat, depending on thickness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—just make sure your mojo and seasoning are gluten-free.

Can I grill it outdoors?

Definitely. Grill over medium-high heat for a nice char and smoky flavor.

What sides go best with this dish?

Classic Cuban sides like white rice, black beans, maduros (fried sweet plantains), or even a simple salad.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, though texture may change slightly. Best enjoyed freshly made or within a few days in the fridge.

Is marinating at room temperature safe?

Yes, for up to 20 minutes. For longer marination, place in the fridge.

Conclusion

With its citrusy mojo, cozy seasoning, and quick griddle sear, Cuban Pollo a la Plancha turns ordinary chicken breasts into something special. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this dish brings zesty warmth and bold flavor to the table—every time.