Cuban Pollo a la Plancha: A Simple, Juicy, and Flavorful Griddled Chicken Recipe

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is a classic dish that combines the flavors of citrus, garlic, and a perfect griddled sear to create a tender, juicy chicken breast. This easy recipe will revolutionize the way you think about chicken breasts, offering a moist and flavorful alternative to dry, bland chicken. With its quick prep time and mouthwatering results, this Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is the perfect meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

This Cuban Pollo a la Plancha recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The chicken breasts marinate in a delicious mojo marinade, infusing them with a zesty citrus-garlic flavor. After a brief marination, the chicken is griddled to golden perfection, resulting in a juicy, tender bite every time. The optional sautéed onions on top elevate the dish with extra flavor and aroma, making it a must-try.

Not only is this recipe bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it alongside a variety of Cuban sides such as black beans, rice, tostones, or sweet plantains. This dish is family-friendly, quick, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal rotation.

Ingredients for Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

Here’s what you’ll need to make this authentic Cuban chicken recipe:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The main protein for this dish. Pounded thin to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
• Mojo Marinade: A citrus-garlic marinade that imparts a tangy, flavorful base to the chicken. You can make your own or buy pre-made mojo for convenience.
• Homemade Sazon Completa: A spice blend that adds depth to the flavor. It includes coriander, cumin, garlic powder, and more, giving the chicken a distinctly Cuban flair.
• Neutral Oil or Unsalted Butter: For griddling the chicken and achieving that golden-brown sear.
• Sliced Onions (optional): Sautéed onions are a delicious topping that adds sweetness and texture to the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make some adjustments based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand, here are some suggestions:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, though they may take a little longer to cook.
• Vegetable Oil: For a lighter option, you can use vegetable oil instead of butter.
• No Onions: If you’re not a fan of onions, feel free to skip them or substitute with thinly sliced bell peppers for a similar sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

1. Tenderize the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it is about ¼ inch thick. This step helps the chicken cook more evenly and stay juicy.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow dish, place the pounded chicken breasts and pour the mojo marinade over them. Sprinkle with homemade sazon completa on both sides. Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This short marination time allows the chicken to absorb all the vibrant flavors without over-marinating and becoming mushy.
3. Griddle the Chicken: Heat your griddle, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of neutral oil or unsalted butter to the pan. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts in the pan, cooking them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve: Serve your Pollo a la Plancha with your favorite sides such as white rice, black beans, or fried plantains. Top with sautéed onions for extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cuban Pollo a la Plancha

• Don’t Skip Pounding the Chicken: This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender. It also prevents dry spots from forming.
• Marinate for No More Than 30 Minutes: While you can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours, marinating for too long can cause the citrus in the marinade to break down the chicken’s texture.
• Check for Doneness: To ensure your chicken is cooked through, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. This ensures a moist, safe-to-eat meal.
• Adjust the Seasoning: If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Moros y Cristianos (Cuban Black Beans and Rice): This flavorful combination of black beans and rice is a classic Cuban side that complements the citrusy chicken perfectly.
• Tostones: Crispy twice-fried green plantains are a delicious and authentic Cuban side dish that adds a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Sweet Plantains: For a sweet contrast, serve your Pollo a la Plancha with caramelized sweet plantains. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
• Avocado: Fresh avocado slices add a creamy, cool element that balances the heat and tang of the chicken.

A Taste of Cuba in Every Bite

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the bright, bold flavors of Cuban cuisine to your table. The juicy, perfectly griddled chicken combined with the citrus-garlic marinade is an unforgettable combination. Whether you’re looking to try Cuban food for the first time or you’re already a fan of the cuisine, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious way to prepare chicken, and you’ll never go back to bland chicken breasts again!

Conclusion

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is more than just a simple chicken dish; it’s a vibrant, flavorful meal that brings the essence of Cuban cuisine right to your kitchen. The citrus-garlic marinade ensures that the chicken remains moist and juicy, while the griddled sear adds a delicious golden brown crust. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees a satisfying result every time. Serve it with traditional Cuban sides like black beans, rice, or plantains, and you’ve got a complete, mouthwatering meal. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to dry chicken breasts again!

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