Fire up the grill and get ready to spice up your mealtime with this mouthwatering Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak! Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, and bold spices, this dish captures the vibrant spirit of Cuban cuisine in every juicy, char-grilled bite. It’s a simple yet flavor-packed recipe that brings sunshine to your plate—perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave something exciting and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Bursting with Bold Flavors – Citrus and spices infuse the chicken with Cuban flair.
Perfectly Grilled Every Time – Tender inside, with smoky, caramelized edges.
Quick & Easy Marinade – Just a few ingredients deliver big taste.
Versatile Serving Options – Great with rice, plantains, salad, or tucked in a sandwich.
A Taste of Havana at Home – No passport needed for this island-inspired meal!
Ingredients for Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak
Time to add a burst of brightness to every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a lean protein base that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
Olive oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken, enhancing flavor and moisture.
Fresh lime juice: A key player, it brings brightness and acidity, balancing the dish perfectly.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the chicken with a robust flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ground cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy note, giving the chicken a hint of depth.
Dried oregano: A classic herb in Cuban cuisine, it contributes a fragrant, slightly peppery flavor.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the marinade.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the other spices.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a bit of heat, these can elevate the dish to a new level.
Fresh cilantro: A vibrant garnish that adds a fresh touch and a pop of color.
Lime wedges: Perfect for serving, they allow guests to add an extra burst of citrus flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to experiment with these ingredients; cooking is all about making it your own!
How to Make Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak is straightforward and fun to make. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. This marinade is where the magic happens! The combination of flavors will infuse the chicken with a zesty kick that’s hard to resist.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours for even more flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is soaking up all those delicious flavors, it’s time to get your grill ready. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear on the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once your grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your chicken is juicy and safe to eat.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial! Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even more tender. Once rested, slice the chicken and serve it garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Tips for Success
Always let the chicken marinate for at least an hour; longer is better for flavor.
Preheat your grill properly to ensure even cooking and those perfect grill marks.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F is the magic number.
Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
Experiment with the marinade by adding your favorite spices for a personal touch.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: A traditional grill works best, but a grill pan on the stovetop is a great alternative.
Medium Bowl: For mixing the marinade; any mixing bowl will do.
Resealable Plastic Bag or Shallow Dish: To marinate the chicken; both options are effective.
Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking doneness; a simple kitchen thermometer works too.
Variations
Spicy Cuban Grilled Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
Herb-Infused Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the marinade for a fragrant twist.
Honey-Lime Glaze: Mix in a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a delicious plant-based alternative.
Grilled Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in corn tortillas with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a tasty taco night.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak with a side of fluffy white rice or cilantro-lime rice for a refreshing complement.
Serve alongside black beans for a hearty, protein-packed meal.
A crisp green salad with avocado and tomatoes adds a fresh touch.
For drinks, consider a cold mojito or a light lager to enhance the flavors.
Garnish with extra lime wedges and cilantro for a vibrant presentation.
FAQs about Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re juicier and can add even more flavor to your Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the desired internal temperature.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional sauces or sides you serve with it are also gluten-free. Enjoy it with rice or beans for a complete meal.
What can I serve with Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak?
Pair it with fluffy rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in tacos with avocado and salsa for a fun twist. The options are endless!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the grill to maintain its juicy texture.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a fantastic idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, making your Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak even more delicious. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acidity from the lime juice can start to break down the chicken.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Cuban Grilled Chicken Steak is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the table. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Each bite transports you to the sunny streets of Havana, filled with laughter and good company. Plus, the joy of sharing a delicious dish with loved ones is truly unmatched. So fire up that grill, embrace the flavors, and enjoy the delightful experience that this Cuban classic brings to your kitchen!
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to create a marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is nicely browned.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve the grilled chicken garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Serve the grilled chicken on a bed of rice or with a side of black beans for a complete meal.
