If you’re craving a delicious, flavorful sandwich that combines tender grilled chicken, savory ham, and a zesty kick, the Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich is just what you need. Inspired by the classic Cuban sandwich, this version swaps in marinated grilled chicken for an extra boost of flavor. The Mojo marinade, with its citrusy, garlicky taste, infuses the chicken with rich, tangy notes, while the melted Swiss cheese and crunchy pickles add perfect contrast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering sandwich that packs a punch in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it up at a weekend barbecue, this Cuban-inspired creation is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zesty Flavor: The Mojo marinade adds a tangy, garlicky burst of flavor to the grilled chicken that elevates the sandwich.
Quick and Easy: With only a short marinating time and a simple assembly process, you can have this sandwich ready in under 1.5 hours.
Perfect Balance of Tastes: The combination of smoky grilled chicken, savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Customizable: This sandwich can easily be adapted to your taste by adjusting the amount of mustard or choosing a different cheese.
Satisfying and Hearty: This sandwich is both filling and flavorful, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Mojo marinade
Swiss cheese
Ham slices
Pickles
Sandwich rolls
Mustard (to taste)

Variations

Different Protein: Swap the grilled chicken for pulled pork or roast beef for a different twist on the Cuban sandwich.
Cheese Choices: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to use provolone or mozzarella.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for an added layer of heat.
Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

How to Make the Recipe

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a dish and pour the Mojo marinade over them. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
Assemble the Sandwiches: While the chicken is grilling, slice the sandwich rolls in half. On the bottom half of each roll, layer Swiss cheese, ham, pickles, grilled chicken, and a touch of mustard.
Press and Grill the Sandwich: Use a panini press or a skillet to grill the sandwich. Press down gently while grilling until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the sandwiches from the press or grill, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy your grilled Mojo chicken Cuban sandwiches!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts rather than frozen.
Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give your chicken enough space to cook evenly by grilling in batches if needed.
Toast the Bread: If you don’t have a panini press, you can toast the sandwich rolls on the grill or in a skillet for extra crunch.
Customize Your Marinade: For a richer flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight in the Mojo marinade.
Add Extra Flavor: Experiment with adding a few more condiments like chipotle mayo or honey mustard to take the sandwich to the next level.

How to Serve

Serve your Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich with a side of crispy fries, a light salad, or even some plantain chips to keep the Cuban theme going.
Pair it with a cold drink like iced tea, a mojito, or even a refreshing beer for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have leftover sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil and store them in the refrigerator.

Freezing

You can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches fresh to maintain their texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat the sandwiches, wrap them in foil and heat them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also use a panini press or grill pan to crisp up the bread again.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work well and provide a slightly richer flavor due to their higher fat content.
How long should I marinate the chicken? At least 1 hour is recommended, but marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Provolone or mozzarella would be great alternatives to Swiss cheese.
How do I make the sandwich spicy? Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy mustard for an extra kick.
Can I make the Mojo marinade from scratch? Yes, you can make Mojo marinade at home using garlic, citrus juice (orange and lime), olive oil, and spices like cumin and oregano.
Can I grill the chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can grill the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Can I use store-bought sandwich rolls? Yes, store-bought rolls work perfectly. However, fresh bakery rolls add an extra touch to the sandwich.
Is this recipe gluten-free? The sandwich rolls are typically not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free rolls for a gluten-free version.
What if I don’t have a panini press? A grill pan or skillet works well for pressing and grilling the sandwiches.
Can I add other toppings to this sandwich? Feel free to add other toppings such as lettuce, tomato, or even avocado to customize the sandwich to your liking.

Conclusion

The Grilled Mojo Chicken Cuban Sandwich is a delightful twist on a classic Cuban favorite. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, it’s sure to become a go-to meal for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this sandwich will satisfy your cravings for something hearty, flavorful, and irresistible. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and crispy texture, and let this sandwich become a staple in your recipe collection!