Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast)

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast) is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe features juicy, citrus-marinated chicken breasts that are griddled to perfection and topped with sautéed onions. It’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of flavors ensures that your chicken will be anything but boring!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed: The mojo marinade infuses the chicken with bold, zesty flavors that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside rice, beans, or plantains for a complete meal that can suit any palate.
• Healthy Choice: With lean chicken breast and flavorful marinades, this dish is a nutritious option for health-conscious eaters.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its irresistible taste makes it a hit among both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Griddle or grill pan
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Shallow dish for marinating
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Griddle or grill pan: This tool ensures even heating and gives the chicken those beautiful grill marks while keeping it juicy.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Pounding the chicken helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a succulent texture after cooking.
• Shallow dish for marinating: Allows for better distribution of the marinade on each piece of chicken, enhancing flavor absorption.

Ingredients

To make Cuban Pollo a la Plancha (Easy Griddled Chicken Breast), you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup mojo marinade (or use store-bought)
• 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

1. 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’re about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Don’t skip this step! Pounding the chicken helps it cook evenly and results in a juicier texture.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a shallow dish, add the chicken breasts.
2. Pour the mojo marinade over the chicken and season with homemade sazon completa on both sides.
3. Marinate at room temperature for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. In a griddle, grill pan, or large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
2. Working in batches, remove chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess.
3. Place them on the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your Cuban Pollo a la Plancha with white rice, black beans, and/or sweet plantains. Enjoy your delicious meal!

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

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is not only delicious but also versatile in its serving options. Pair it with various sides and toppings to enhance your meal experience.

With Sautéed Onions

• Sliced sautéed onions add a sweet and savory flavor that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve over fluffy white rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the juices from the chicken, making every bite flavorful.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and fill corn or flour tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a tasty taco twist.

With Black Beans

• A side of seasoned black beans brings protein and fiber to your plate, balancing out the meal beautifully.

As a Salad Topping

• Slice the griddled chicken and place it on top of mixed greens. Drizzle with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.

With Sweet Plantains

• Fried sweet plantains provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, adding sweetness and texture to your dish.

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

To achieve the best results with your Cuban Pollo a la Plancha, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour or overnight if time allows.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures that the chicken gets that perfect golden crust while remaining juicy inside.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of grilling, leading to less crispy results.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture and enhances juiciness.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices in your marinade to match your taste preferences.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and citrus will elevate your mojo marinade, providing vibrant flavors that make the dish shine.

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

Pairing side dishes with Cuban Pollo a la Plancha enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice: This slightly sweet rice complements the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.
2. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with lime dressing adds crunch and brightness to your plate.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled alongside bring color and nutrients.
4. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices seasoned with lime juice provide richness that balances perfectly with the chicken.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and is packed with protein, making it a hearty side choice.
6. Tomato & Cucumber Salad: A light salad offers freshness; toss in some olive oil for extra flavor.
7. Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips serve as an excellent crunchy side that pairs well with any Latin-inspired meal.
8. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can soak up any leftover juices from your plate, making it a satisfying addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cuban Pollo a la Plancha turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Bold mistake: Not pounding the chicken. Pounding the chicken breasts makes them thinner and helps them cook evenly, resulting in a juicier texture.
• Bold mistake: Skipping the marinade. Marinating the chicken in mojo for at least 20 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step!
• Bold mistake: Overcrowding the pan. Cooking too many chicken breasts at once can lower the pan’s temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Work in batches for best results.
• Bold mistake: Using low-quality oil. A good neutral oil or unsalted butter is essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Choose wisely!
• Bold mistake: Forgetting to let it rest. Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy by redistributing the juices. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and warm chicken for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cuban Pollo a la Plancha?

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is an easy griddled chicken breast dish marinated in citrus flavors and spices, then grilled to perfection.

How do I make homemade sazon completa?

To make homemade sazon completa, mix garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, oregano, paprika, and salt in equal parts for flavorful seasoning.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute with turkey or even beef if you prefer different meats while keeping the marinade and cooking method similar.

What sides go well with Cuban Pollo a la Plancha?

This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, black beans, sweet plantains, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Cuban Pollo a la Plancha is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you serve it with rice or on its own with sautéed onions, it’s bound to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and elevate your weeknight dinners!