Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Nothing beats the lively flavors and satisfying crunch of a perfectly crafted sandwich, and this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe truly delivers on both fronts. Marrying the bright citrus and garlic notes of traditional mojo marinade with tender grilled chicken, melty Swiss cheese, smoky ham, and tangy pickles, this sandwich is a fiesta of textures and tastes that will brighten up any meal. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a casual dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a delicious twist to the classic Cuban sandwich you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this sandwich lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. From the zesty Mojo marinade that tenderizes and seasons the chicken to the crisp pickles and creamy Swiss cheese, every component is thoughtfully chosen to create a mouthwatering meal without fuss.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up the marinade beautifully, providing juicy, tender meat.
- 1 cup Mojo marinade: This vibrant, tangy marinade is packed with garlic and citrus, infusing the chicken with bold Cuban flavors.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor that melts perfectly over the warm chicken.
- 8 slices ham: Introduces a smoky, salty note that’s essential for that authentic Cuban sandwich character.
- 8 slices pickles: Offers a crisp, tangy crunch that brightens each bite and balances richness.
- 4 sandwich rolls: Choose sturdy rolls with a soft inside and crusty exterior to hold all the fillings well.
- Mustard, to taste: A touch of classic mustard brings an extra layer of zestiness that ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, then pour in the Mojo marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated to allow the citrus and garlic-infused marinade to tenderize and flavor the chicken deeply. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour; this step is crucial to building that signature vibrant Cuban taste.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and have those beautiful char marks. This grilling step gives the chicken a smoky flavor and juicy texture that shines in every bite of your sandwich. Be careful not to overcook—aim for tender and juicy chicken every time.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
Once the chicken is ready, it’s assembly time. On each sandwich roll, layer Swiss cheese, slices of smoky ham, tangy pickles, and the succulent grilled chicken. Don’t forget to spread your mustard of choice generously on the bread. This layering ensures every mouthful is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors.
Step 4: Press and Grill the Sandwiches
Place your assembled sandwiches in a panini press or grill pan. Press firmly and cook until the Swiss cheese melts and the bread crisps up to a golden-brown perfection. That irresistible crunch combined with melty cheese and warm filling is what makes this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe an unforgettable meal.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once pressed, cut your sandwiches in half if you like and serve immediately. Enjoy the blend of bold flavors and satisfying textures while the sandwich is warm and fresh. This is the moment all the marinade and grilling efforts truly come to life.
How to Serve Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Complement your sandwich with a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an added burst of color and brightness. A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of extra mustard on top can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe pairs beautifully with classic sides such as crispy sweet potato fries, a zesty coleslaw, or even simple kettle-cooked chips. For something lighter, a side salad with a citrus vinaigrette enhances the mojito vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by turning the sandwich into sliders for party platters or cutting them diagonally and stacking them on a vibrant wooden board alongside colorful dips. You could also serve the sandwich open-faced, layering the fillings thickly on toasted bread for an imaginative twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover sandwich components or pre-made sandwiches, store them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Grilled chicken and rolls keep best refrigerated for up to 3 days, while pickles and cheese can last longer.
Freezing
You can freeze the grilled chicken breasts before assembly by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before using. Avoid freezing the assembled sandwich as the bread texture will suffer.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until warm, then toast or press the sandwich again to revive that crispy exterior and melted cheese sensation. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts beautifully, you can experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile while keeping that gooey texture.
What if I don’t have a panini press?
No worries at all! You can use a grill pan or skillet to press the sandwich by placing a heavy lid or another pan on top, applying firm pressure to toast the bread and melt the cheese nicely.
How long should I marinate the chicken for maximum flavor?
At least 1 hour is ideal to allow the Mojo marinade to penetrate the chicken well. If time permits, marinating up to 4 hours will intensify the flavors even more.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, you can grill the chicken ahead of time and store it separately from the sandwich ingredients. Assemble and press the sandwiches fresh when you’re ready to enjoy for peak taste and texture.
Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?
Definitely! Feel free to add sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or even a spicy aioli to customize your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe and make it your own delicious creation.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a sandwich recipe that offers bold Cuban flavors, tender grilled chicken, and that perfect mix of melty, crunchy, and tangy components, it’s time to give this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe a try. It’s straightforward to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and bound to be a favorite everyone will ask for again. So fire up that grill and let the flavors transport you to a Cuban kitchen in your very own home!
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Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich is a flavorful twist on the classic Cuban sandwich, featuring juicy mojo-marinated grilled chicken breasts, Swiss cheese, ham, and pickles, all pressed to crispy perfection in a sandwich roll with a touch of mustard. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Mojo marinade
Sandwich Components
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices ham
- 8 slices pickles
- 4 sandwich rolls
- Mustard, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag, and pour 1 cup of Mojo marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated, then cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and grill them until fully cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove from grill and let rest briefly.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the sandwich rolls horizontally. On the bottom half of each roll, layer 1 slice of Swiss cheese, 2 slices of ham, 2 slices of pickles, and a grilled chicken breast. Spread mustard on the top half of the rolls to taste and place on top of the stacked ingredients.
- Press the Sandwiches: Preheat a panini press or grill pan. Place each assembled sandwich in the press or on the grill pan and cook until the bread is toasted and crispy, and the Swiss cheese is melted, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the press, slice if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy the melty, tangy, and savory flavors of this Cuban-inspired grilled chicken sandwich.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for longer than 1 hour if time allows for more intense flavor infusion.
- If you don’t have a panini press, you can press sandwiches with a heavy skillet on the stovetop using a spatula or foil-wrapped brick.
- Mojo marinade typically contains citrus, garlic, and herbs – if unavailable, you can make a quick version with orange juice, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and cumin.
- To further replicate classic Cuban sandwiches, try adding a thin layer of yellow mustard inside the roll before layering ingredients.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
