Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast) is a fantastic dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This juicy, citrus-marinated chicken breast is griddled to perfection and topped with sautéed onions for an irresistible finish. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, you’ll never think of chicken breast as boring again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The mojo marinade and homemade sazon completa infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors that excite the palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, beans, or plantains for a complete meal that caters to your cravings.
• Healthy Choice: With lean chicken breast and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious option for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown chicken topped with sautéed onions looks as good as it tastes, making it ideal for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make preparing Cuban Pollo a la Plancha enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-duty cutting board
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Shallow dish for marinating
• Griddle or grill pan
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty cutting board: Provides a sturdy surface for pounding the chicken without slipping.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Ensures even thickness of chicken breasts for uniform cooking.
• Griddle or grill pan: Allows for high heat cooking that gives the chicken a perfect sear while keeping it juicy.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Cuban Pollo a la Plancha, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup mojo marinade (or use storebought)
• 2 teaspoons homemade sazon completa
• 2-3 tablespoons neutral oil (or unsalted butter for pan frying)
• Sliced sautéed onions (optional)

How to Make Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

On a cutting board, place chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, slightly pound the chicken breasts until they are 1/4-inch thin. Don’t skip this step! Pounding tenderizes the meat which helps it cook evenly and results in a juicier texture.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a shallow dish, add the chicken breasts. Pour the mojo marinade over them and season with homemade sazon completa on both sides. Marinate at room temperature for about 20 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Heat Your Cooking Surface

In a griddle, grill pan, or large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Working in batches, remove chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Place them onto the hot pan. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Cuban Pollo a la Plancha with white rice, black beans, and/or sweet plantains for an authentic experience. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and toppings. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Sautéed Onions

• Sautéed onions add a sweet and savory touch. Simply cook thinly sliced onions in olive oil until they are caramelized, then serve on top of the chicken.

Over Rice

• Serve Cuban Pollo a la Plancha over a bed of white rice. The rice absorbs the flavors of the chicken and marinade, creating a hearty meal.

Accompanied by Black Beans

• Black beans are a classic pairing. Serve them alongside or over the rice for added protein and texture.

With Sweet Plantains

• Fried or baked sweet plantains bring a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.

In a Salad

• Slice the griddled chicken and serve it chilled in a fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and avocado for a lighter option.

Topped with Avocado Salsa

• Create an avocado salsa with diced avocado, tomatoes, lime juice, and cilantro. This fresh topping adds creaminess and flavor to your dish.

How to Perfect Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

Making perfect Cuban Pollo a la Plancha requires attention to detail. Here are tips to ensure your chicken turns out juicy and flavorful every time.

• Pound the Chicken: Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly without drying out.
• Marinate Properly: Allow at least 20 minutes for marination in mojo sauce. This infuses incredible flavors into the chicken.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your griddle or skillet is hot before adding the chicken. A properly heated surface creates that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of grilling.
• Use Enough Oil: A little oil prevents sticking and promotes browning. Just enough oil will give you that crispy exterior without excess grease.

Best Side Dishes for Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

To complement your Cuban Pollo a la Plancha, consider these tasty side dishes that enhance its flavors.

1. Moro Rice: A blend of rice and black beans cooked together for added depth of flavor.
2. Tostones: Twice-fried green plantains that offer crunchiness; perfect for dipping in garlic sauce.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, bell peppers, lime juice, and cilantro that adds brightness.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed with lime vinaigrette provides nice contrast.
5. Yuca Fries: Crispy yuca fries seasoned with garlic make for an excellent alternative to regular fries.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
7. Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice infused with coconut milk offers sweetness that balances savory chicken perfectly.
8. Pickled Red Onions: These tangy onions enhance any dish with their vibrant flavor profile when served on top or alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cuban Pollo a la Plancha, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to dry and bland meat. Always allow at least 20 minutes for the marinade to soak in.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking it too long will make it tough. Keep an eye on the time, cooking just 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.
• Not pounding the chicken: Forgetting to pound the chicken breasts can result in uneven cooking. Thin pieces cook faster and remain juicy.
• Using low-quality oil: Low-quality oils can affect flavor and smoke point. Always choose a neutral oil or unsalted butter for better results.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cuban Pollo a la Plancha in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

• Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short intervals, checking until warm (2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is full of flavor and easy to prepare! Here are some questions readers often ask.

What is Cuban Pollo a la Plancha?

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha refers to grilled chicken breast marinated in citrus and spices, resulting in tender, juicy meat that’s perfect for any meal.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with beef or turkey if you’re looking for variety while maintaining similar flavors.

How do I make homemade sazon completa?

To make sazon completa, combine garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, and paprika. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Cuban Pollo a la Plancha?

It pairs beautifully with white rice, black beans, or sweet plantains for a complete meal that embodies Cuban cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite sides or adjusting spices. Try this recipe today for an exciting twist on ordinary chicken breast!