Publix Mojo Chicken Recipe: Flavorful Cuban-Style Delight

I’ve mastered the Publix Mojo Chicken Recipe, a flavorful Cuban-style delight that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. This dish features a zesty marinade that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with aromatic spices.

The result is juicy, moist chicken with a crispy exterior, perfect for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients for Publix Mojo Chicken

Simple ingredients create a flavorful Cuban-style delight with restaurant-quality results.

For authentic Cuban flavor, use fresh lime juice and high-quality olive oil. Most grocery stores carry the necessary ingredients, but you might find better prices on spices in bulk at Costco or Trader Joe’s.

No fresh cilantro? Parsley makes a decent substitute. For a spicier kick, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes to the marinade. If using store-bought mojo marinade, check the label for sodium content to adjust salt accordingly.

Marinated chicken keeps for up to 2 days in the fridge. Cooked chicken reheats beautifully and can be frozen for 3 months. Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Publix Mojo Chicken

Follow my proven method to achieve perfectly marinated and cooked chicken every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Mojo Marinade Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the 0.5 cup lime juice, 0.25 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 0.5 tsp black pepper until well combined. I’ve found that using freshly squeezed lime juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Add the 4 cloves garlic cloves to the marinade mixture and whisk to incorporate. The aroma of garlic mingling with citrus is a great indicator that you’re on the right track.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Breasts

Add the 1.5 lb chicken breasts to the marinade mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged. If necessary, you can gently pound the thicker parts of the breasts to achieve even thickness. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.

During the marinating process, the citrus juice will start to break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat. You’ll notice the chicken taking on a slightly opaque appearance as it marinates.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Brush the grill or grill pan with 0.25 cup olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

As the chicken cooks, you’ll notice a nice char forming on the outside, which adds texture and flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Cilantro and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken against the grain into thin strips. Garnish with 0.25 cup chopped cilantro for a fresh and herbaceous note. If desired, serve with additional 1 cup mojo marinade on the side for extra flavor.

Serve the Publix Mojo Chicken hot, accompanied by your choice of sides, such as rice, beans, or roasted vegetables. The combination of citrus, garlic, and spices will transport your taste buds to a Cuban-inspired culinary experience.

Troubleshooting This Recipe

Common Cooking Mistakes

One of the most frequent issues with Publix Mojo Chicken is overcooking. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. I always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices. 🔥

Marinade Troubleshooting

If your marinade isn’t effectively tenderizing the chicken, ensure you’re using fresh lime juice and not skipping the minimum 2-hour marinating time. For better flavor penetration, pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness. I find that marinating overnight yields the best results.

Grilling Challenges

Grill flare-ups can cause uneven cooking. To prevent this,

Texture Issues

If your chicken turns out dry, it might be due to insufficient marinating time or overcooking. To achieve that perfect Publix texture, maintain a consistent grill temperature and don’t press down on the chicken while it’s cooking. This helps keep the meat juicy.

Flavor Adjustments

For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes to your marinade. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, increase the garlic cloves to 6. I often adjust the marinade based on personal taste preferences, and you can too.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Cooked Publix Mojo Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a gentle heat to prevent drying out the chicken. I recommend reheating it in the oven at 275°F until warmed through. ❄️