Fried Chicken, Cuban Style
Cuban-style fried chicken features tender, marinated pieces infused with garlic, orange juice, and herbs, delivering vibrant flavors perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove skin and fat from chicken pieces.
- Pierce meat in several places with long fork prongs, then place chicken in a bowl.
- Combine garlic, oregano, onion, orange juice, wine, and salt.
- Pour the marinade mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. If you can't find sour orange juice, a mix of equal parts orange juice and lime juice works well as a substitute. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for frying to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. For a healthier option, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cuban-style fried chicken with a side of rice and black beans for a classic pairing. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and flavor when sprinkled on top. This dish also pairs beautifully with Black Bean Soup(Crock-Pot) for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple side salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Chicken, Cuban Style contains roughly 473 calories, with 12g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1031mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used; however, you may need to adjust the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What is the best oil to use for frying?
Pure Spanish olive oil is recommended for its flavor and high smoke point. However, you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer a more neutral flavor. Just make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken for optimal crispiness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also serve the fried chicken with a spicy dipping sauce made from mayonnaise mixed with hot sauce for an added layer of flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).