Description
Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is a quick and flavorful griddled chicken dish, marinated in a citrusy-garlicky mix and cooked to juicy perfection. A weeknight-friendly recipe packed with bold Cuban flavors.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ½-inch thickness)
6 cloves garlic (minced or mashed into a paste)
Juice of 2 limes (or sour orange juice, if available)
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for cooking)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the pounded chicken breasts to the marinade and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat and brush with a little olive oil.
- Cook the marinated chicken for 4–6 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.
Notes
For a smoky note, add the optional paprika.
Use boneless chicken thighs for an even juicier result.
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Swap cilantro with parsley if preferred or unavailable.
This chicken is great grilled outdoors for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Griddled
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
