If you have been dreaming of combining bold Cuban flavors with the irresistible sizzle of grilled chicken, this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe is about to become your new favorite lunch or dinner fix. Juicy, tangy mojo-marinated chicken meets melty Swiss cheese, smoky ham, and crisp pickles, all nestled in a perfectly toasted sandwich roll. It’s a mouthwatering celebration of textures and tastes that brings a little slice of Cuban street food right into your kitchen with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to create layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Every item plays its part in making this sandwich sing—from the bright, citrusy mojo marinade that tenderizes and seasons the chicken, to the creamy Swiss cheese that melts just right and the crunchy pickles that provide a zesty snap.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein star that soaks up the mojo marinade perfectly for juicy results.
- Mojo marinade: A vibrant blend typically including garlic, citrus, and herbs to infuse the chicken with authentic Cuban flavor.
- Swiss cheese slices: Melts beautifully over the warm chicken, adding creamy richness.
- Ham slices: Classic Cuban sandwich ham adds smoky saltiness and depth.
- Pickle slices: Provide the essential crunch and tang that cut through the richness.
- Sandwich rolls: The sturdy but soft bread that holds everything together while crisping up nicely on the grill.
- Mustard: Adds a little kick to brighten the flavors, used according to taste.
How to Make Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by immersing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the mojo marinade for at least one hour. This step is crucial because the acidic citrus notes and garlic in the marinade work magic tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with deeply authentic Cuban flavors. Don’t rush this—leaving it for longer will only make your sandwich better.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Once marinated, place the chicken breasts on a preheated grill and cook them until they are thoroughly done, juicy, and beautifully charred around the edges. Grilling imparts a smoky, caramelized crust that elevates this Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe from simple to sensational. Keep an eye on the chicken so it stays moist without drying out.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Now for the fun part: layering. Start by placing a slice of Swiss cheese on your sandwich roll, then add two slices of savory ham, followed by several slices of tangy pickles. Next comes your perfectly grilled mojo chicken breast, and finish with a spread of mustard to tie it all together. Each layer builds flavor and texture, creating a perfectly balanced bite.
Step 4: Press and Grill the Sandwich
Place your stacked sandwich on a panini press or grill pan. Press and grill it until the Swiss cheese melts and the bread turns crispy and golden brown. This step melds all those delicious components together, transforming the sandwich into a satisfying hot meal with a crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful interior.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once heated through and perfectly pressed, your sandwich is ready to serve. Slice it in half for easy handling and dig into the rich, vibrant layers of this fabulous Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe. Serve it hot to fully enjoy the melting cheese and warm mojo chicken’s robust flavors.
How to Serve Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
While the sandwich is wonderful on its own, a little garnish can make it even more inviting. Fresh cilantro leaves or thin slices of red onion can add a fresh, bright note to contrast the richness. Pickled jalapeños also offer a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous. These small touches add another layer of excitement to your sandwich plate.
Side Dishes
Complement your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe perfectly with classic Cuban sides like black beans and rice, crispy tostones, or a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. These sides add heartiness or freshness to balance the sandwich’s bold flavors and keep your meal satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, slice the sandwich into smaller sliders and arrange them on a colorful platter alongside dips like garlic aioli or spicy mustard. Wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for a picnic vibe or serve them open-faced with toppings piled high to showcase the vibrant ingredients visually. Presentation can elevate the experience and make serving this flavorful sandwich even more fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days. To keep the sandwich from getting soggy, you might consider wrapping the bread and fillings separately and assembling again before reheating. Proper storage preserves the juicy mojo chicken and the crispness of other ingredients as much as possible.
Freezing
Freezing this sandwich is possible but best reserved for the cooked chicken portion rather than the fully assembled sandwich. Store grilled mojo chicken breasts in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating and constructing your sandwich fresh for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat your assembled sandwich in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until the cheese melts and the bread crisps back up, usually about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that delicious grilled texture and avoid sogginess. A quick re-toast is all it takes to bring back that irresistible warmth and crunch.
FAQs
What is mojo marinade and why is it used?
Mojo marinade is a traditional Cuban blend of garlic, citrus juices (like lime or orange), olive oil, and herbs. It’s used to tenderize and flavor meats, imparting a bright, savory, and slightly tangy zest that defines many Cuban dishes, including this chicken sandwich.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Swiss cheese is classic for Cuban sandwiches due to its meltability and mild flavor, you can experiment with provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well to hold everything together.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this sandwich?
Absolutely! You can swap the grilled mojo chicken with grilled marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms, layered with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard to enjoy a vegetarian take while keeping the spirit of the sandwich alive.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least one hour is recommended to let the mojo marinade penetrate the chicken. However, marinating for up to 8 hours in the fridge can deepen the flavors even more without compromising the texture.
What if I don’t have a panini press?
No worries! You can use a grill pan and press the sandwich down with a heavy skillet or pan to mimic the effect of a panini press. Just be sure to flip carefully and press down firmly to get that crispy, melty finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about biting into the perfect Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe — the layers of smoky, tangy, melty goodness wrapped up in warm, crispy bread create moments of pure comfort and flavor. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this recipe is a total winner worth making again and again. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!
Print
Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cuban
Description
A delicious and flavorful Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich featuring marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection, layered with Swiss cheese, ham, pickles, and mustard on a crispy pressed sandwich roll, perfect for a satisfying and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Mojo marinade
Sandwich Fillings and Bread
- 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 with 1 cup of Mojo marinade. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors infuse.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it until fully cooked and juices run clear, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Assemble the sandwiches: On each sandwich roll, layer Swiss cheese, ham slices, pickles, the grilled chicken breast, and a spread of mustard to your liking.
- Press the sandwiches: Heat a panini press or sandwich grill. Place the assembled sandwiches inside and press until the bread is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese has melted completely, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the press, slice in half if desired, and serve hot for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use homemade Mojo marinade made with citrus juices, garlic, and spices.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken breasts on a stovetop grill pan or bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Substitute sandwich rolls with Cuban bread for a more authentic experience.
- Adjust mustard quantity according to your taste preference.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
