If you are craving a sandwich that bursts with vibrant flavors and captures the spirit of Cuban cuisine, then this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy grilled chicken soaked in tangy, citrusy mojo marinade meets melty Swiss cheese, smoky ham, and punchy pickles, all nestled inside a crusty, pressed roll. This sandwich offers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, salty, and savory notes that come together in every delicious bite. Whether you’re making lunch for friends or treating yourself to a satisfying dinner, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something memorable and truly crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each plays a unique role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make this sandwich unforgettable. The mojo marinade ensures the chicken is bursting with zesty brightness, while the ham and Swiss cheese add those classic Cuban touches. Crisp pickles bring acidity and crunch, and the sandwich rolls provide the perfect base for grilling your masterpiece.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfect for grilling and soaking up the mojo marinade deeply.
- 1 cup Mojo marinade: A flavorful blend of garlic, citrus, and herbs that tenderizes and brightens the chicken.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully to add creamy richness to every bite.
- 8 slices ham: Offers a smoky, salty layer that is signature to Cuban sandwiches.
- 8 slices pickles: Provide a bright, tangy crunch that cuts through the richness.
- 4 sandwich rolls: Choose crusty, sturdy rolls that hold up well when pressed and grilled.
- Mustard, to taste: Adds a sharp, peppery kick that balances the sandwich perfectly.
How to Make Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken breasts in the mojo marinade for at least one hour. This step is crucial because the marinade’s bright citrus and aromatic garlic infuse the chicken with intense flavor and help tenderize the meat. The longer you let it soak, the more vibrant and juicy the chicken will be once grilled.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Next, fire up your grill to a medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts until they are fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Grilling adds a smoky char that complements the zesty mojo marinade beautifully, creating a juicy, flavorful centerpiece for your sandwich.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Now comes the fun part: layering the flavors! Slice the sandwich rolls in half and spread mustard to your liking. Layer on the Swiss cheese, ham slices, crisp pickles, and finally the grilled mojo chicken. The combination of layers ensures every bite delivers a little bit of everything that makes the Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Press and Grill the Sandwich
Press your assembled sandwiches in a panini press or grill pan until the cheese melts and the bread is golden and crispy. The pressing not only melts the cheese perfectly but also crisps the rolls, creating the classic crunchy exterior that’s signature to Cuban sandwiches.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once grilled, slice your sandwiches if desired, serve them hot, and dig in! The melding of warm, melted cheese and smoky chicken against the crunch of pickles and the tang of mustard is the kind of comfort food that satisfies every time.
How to Serve Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your sandwich, consider adding a sprig of fresh cilantro or a light drizzle of extra mojo marinade on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a smear of aioli can also brighten the flavor profile without overpowering the classic tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty Cuban sandwich with traditional sides like crispy plantain chips, sweet yuca fries, or a simple Cuban black bean salad. These sides complement the sandwich’s textures and flavors wonderfully and make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the sandwiches into manageable fingers for a party platter or serve mini sliders with toothpicks for casual entertaining. You could also deconstruct the sandwich on a platter, letting guests add their own pickles, mustard, or cheese to customize their bites for a fun twist on the classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep the bread from drying out. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days, so you can enjoy the flavorful Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe again without losing any of its deliciousness.
Freezing
For longer storage, it’s best to freeze the grilled chicken separately from the bread and other fresh ingredients. Freeze the cooked chicken in airtight containers for up to three months. The sandwich rolls and fresh toppings are best used fresh to maintain their ideal texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet or a panini press to bring back that crispy crust and warm melted cheese. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery. A quick toast in the oven wrapped in foil also works well.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts nicely, you can use provolone, mozzarella, or even a mild cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile. Just make sure it melts well to keep that gooey texture.
What exactly is mojo marinade?
Mojo marinade is a Cuban-inspired blend typically made with garlic, citrus juices like lime or orange, olive oil, and herbs. It’s tangy, bright, and aromatic, perfect for tenderizing and flavoring meats like chicken.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with grilled marinated tofu or a hearty portobello mushroom and swap the ham for smoked tempeh or a flavorful veggie ham alternative. The key is retaining the bold mojo marinade flavors and the melty cheese.
Is there an alternative to sandwich rolls?
Yes, you can use Cuban bread if you have access to it, or any firm, crusty bread that holds up well to grilling and pressing. Avoid soft sandwich breads that will get soggy quickly.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least one hour is ideal, but you can leave the chicken in mojo marinade for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. Just be sure not to go too long, as the citrus can start to “cook” the meat and change its texture.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe is a delightful celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat yet special enough to impress friends and family. Once you’ve tasted the juicy mojo-marinated chicken paired with ham, pickles, and melty Swiss pressed to perfection, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved twist on a classic Cuban favorite. Don’t wait to make this sandwich a staple in your kitchen — your taste buds will thank you!
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Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
This Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich combines tender, marinated chicken breasts with traditional Cuban flavors like Swiss cheese, ham, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to perfection in a crispy, toasted sandwich roll. It’s a delicious twist on a classic Cuban sandwich, perfect for a satisfying 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 bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour in the Mojo marinade. Ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover 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 they are fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice the sandwich rolls open. On the bottom half of each roll, layer one slice of Swiss cheese, two slices of ham, two slices of pickles, one grilled chicken breast, and a spread of mustard to taste. Top with the other half of the roll.
- Press the Sandwiches: Preheat a panini press or grill pan. Place the assembled sandwiches inside and press them until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the press, slice if desired, and serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Mojo marinade typically includes garlic, citrus juices, olive oil, and herbs for a tangy flavor.
- For extra crispiness, butter the outside of the sandwich rolls before pressing.
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with another mild cheese if preferred.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be refrigerated and used within 3 days.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked to ensure food safety.
