Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken with Citrus Avocado Salsa Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re like me, a home cook always on the hunt for meals that are tasty, simple, and full of flavor without much fuss, then Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken is about to become your new go-to! Picture this: juicy chicken infused with bright citrus notes and spices, all roasted on one pan for easy cleanup. It’s perfect for busy parents, students, or anyone craving a wholesome dinner that feels like a vacation to the Caribbean.

This Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken recipe is designed for simplicity, requiring minimal prep time and easy cooking steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The entire meal cooks on one pan, reducing cleanup to just a quick wipe. Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish supports a balanced diet by focusing on wholesome ingredients that offer essential nutrients while keeping unhealthy fats low.

Plus, it’s super versatile, adapting well to various dietary preferences like gluten-free, low-calorie, or even plant-based options by swapping proteins or tweaking seasonings. The unique blend of Cuban spices and citrus marinades gives this dish a bold, authentic taste that stands out from typical baked chicken recipes, wow, it’s like a party in your mouth! Whether you’re a working professional whipping up a quick meal or a senior enjoying familiar flavors with a twist, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds.

Real Reasons It Wins Hearts

• It takes just about 15 minutes to prep, which means more time for family chats or relaxing after a long day.
• The fresh veggies and herbs add a pop of color and nutrition, making it appealing to diet-conscious folks.
• You can mix it up easily, like turning it into a low-carb favorite by skipping the potatoes I’ll share more on that later!

I remember the first time I tried this; the aromas from the oven had everyone in my kitchen asking what’s cooking! It’s one of those meals that brings people together, inspiring that joy of cooking we all love.

Essential Ingredients for Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken

Alright, let’s talk about what makes this Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken so irresistible it’s all in the ingredients! I’m a big believer in using fresh, straightforward items that pack a punch of flavor without complicating things. This recipe serves six, so gather these goodies to create a meal that’s bursting with Cuban vibes and citrusy goodness.

Here’s the full list of ingredients you’ll need. I’ve pulled together everything from the recipe details to ensure you have exactly what’s required for that perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Remember, precise measurements are key for the best results, so let’s keep it simple and fun!

Main Ingredients

• 1 ½ lb (≈ 680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• ¼ cup (≈ 60 ml) olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup (≈ 60 ml) fresh orange juice
• 2 Tbsp orange zest (zest of about 1 orange)
• Zest and juice of 1 lime (≈ 1 Tbsp zest, 2 Tbsp juice)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• Large pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1 sweet onion, sliced
• 2 russet potatoes, cut into wedges (≈ 300 350 g)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced (for roasting)

Salsa Ingredients

• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 orange, diced (about ½ cup)
• 1 cup (≈ 30 g) chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime (≈ 2 Tbsp)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Oh, and if you’re watching your calories, this dish clocks in at about 451 kcal per serving, with a total prep time of 15 minutes and cook time of 40 minutes talk about a quick win! For special dietary tweaks, you can swap in vegan options like tofu or keep it gluten-free since everything here is naturally so.

Isn’t it amazing how a few fresh items can turn into something so flavorful? I always feel like a pro chef when I pull this out of the oven!

How to Prepare the Perfect Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, friends, now for the fun part getting your hands dirty in the kitchen! Making Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken is as easy as it gets, and I promise you’ll feel like a rockstar once it’s done. We’re talking one-pan magic that brings out those zesty, garlicky flavors with minimal effort. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and let’s dive in.

First, prepare the marinade by combining orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, cayenne, orange zest, lime zest and juice, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Marinate the chicken in this citrus-spice mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours for deeper flavor trust me, it makes all the difference!

Next, on a rimmed baking sheet, toss the chicken with 2 Tbsp olive oil and the marinade until evenly coated. Add the sliced onion, potato wedges, and bell pepper; drizzle with the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil and season with another pinch of salt and pepper.

Arrange everything in a single layer, place the orange slices on top, and roast for 40 45 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are golden-brown. While that’s baking, whip up the salsa by combining diced avocado, orange, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of flaky sea salt in a bowl and tossing gently.

Serve the roasted chicken and veggies topped with that fresh avocado-orange salsa for a burst of freshness. For dietary needs, substitute with tofu or skinless chicken breast and adjust cooking time it’s that flexible! If you’re looking for more chicken ideas, check out our stuffed chicken recipe for another easy twist.

This step-by-step process is my favorite because it’s foolproof perfect for newlyweds starting their cooking adventures or busy parents juggling schedules!

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken

One of the best things about Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken is how adaptable it is, right? Whether you’re a food enthusiast experimenting with flavors or someone with specific dietary needs, you can tweak this recipe without losing its magic. Let’s break it down so you can make it your own it’s all about keeping that Cuban spirit alive while suiting your lifestyle.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

• Use firm tofu or tempeh marinated in the same citrus and spice blend for a vegan option.
• Substitute chicken thighs with skinless chicken breasts for a leaner variant.
• Try seitan or chickpea-based patties for gluten-free, plant-based protein sources.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

• Swap red bell peppers for zucchini or yellow squash depending on seasonality.
• Use a tomato-based sauce or salsa verde instead of the citrus marinade for a flavor twist.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne or omitting it for a mild taste.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to enhance the seasoning profile.

For a low-carb version, skip the potatoes or swap with radishes, and don’t forget the salsa it’s essential for that wow factor! If you love experimenting, this Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken pairs great with ideas from our chicken casserole recipes.

Mastering Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve nailed the basics, let’s level up your Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken game because who doesn’t love taking a simple recipe to the next level? For optimal crispiness, pat the chicken skin dry before marinating and use a wire rack on the sheet pan for better air circulation. Experiment with flavors by adding pineapple juice or chipotle pepper to the marinade for extra depth oh, it’s a game-changer!

Presentation is key too; serve the chicken sliced over cilantro-lime rice and garnish with pickled red onions for a colorful, Instagram-worthy plate. If you’re prepping ahead, marinate overnight and slice veggies in advance to save time. For extra-crisp potatoes, roast the wedges alone for 30 minutes before adding the rest your family will be impressed!

Adjust cilantro and jalapeño to your liking, and voilà, you’ve got a meal that’s as unique as you are!

How to Store Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken: Best Practices

Alright, let’s keep that Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken fresh for leftovers because let’s face it, this dish is so good you’ll want seconds! Store leftovers in airtight containers and pop them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain that yummy texture. If you’re freezing, portion out the cooked chicken in freezer bags, squeeze out the air, and use within 2-3 months for the best quality.

When reheating, warm it gently in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep it crispy skip the microwave if you can! For meal prep, marinate ahead and cook when ready; it’s a lifesaver for working professionals. These tips ensure your meal stays delicious and safe, making mealtime a breeze even on the go.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken

Sheet Pan Cuban Chicken

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Non‑vegetarian

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Description

🍊 This sheet‑pan Cuban chicken delivers bright citrus notes and a smoky spice blend for a vibrant, one‑pan dinner.
🥑 Topped with a fresh avocado‑orange salsa, it offers creamy texture and a burst of fresh flavor that elevates any weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

– 1 ½ lb (≈ 680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

– ¼ cup (≈ 60 ml) olive oil divided

– 3 cloves garlic minced

– ¼ cup (≈ 60 ml) fresh orange juice

– 2 Tbsp orange zest (zest of about 1 orange)

– Zest and juice of 1 lime (≈ 1 Tbsp zest, 2 Tbsp juice)

– 1 tsp dried oregano

– ½ tsp ground cumin

– ½ tsp cayenne pepper

– Large pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper divided

– 1 sweet onion sliced

– 2 russet potatoes cut into wedges (≈ 300–350 g)

– 1 bell pepper sliced

– 1 orange sliced (for roasting)

– 1 avocado diced

– 1 orange diced (about ½ cup)

– 1 cup (≈ 30 g) chopped cilantro

– 1 jalapeño seeded and minced

– Juice of 1 lime (≈ 2 Tbsp)

– Pinch of flaky sea salt

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Instructions

1-Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and let’s dive in.

2-Prepare the marinade: Combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, cayenne, orange zest, lime zest and juice, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Marinate the chicken in this citrus-spice mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours for deeper flavor trust me, it makes all the difference!

3-Toss the chicken and vegetables: On a rimmed baking sheet, toss the chicken with 2 Tbsp olive oil and the marinade until evenly coated. Add the sliced onion, potato wedges, and bell pepper; drizzle with the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil and season with another pinch of salt and pepper.

4-Roast the chicken and veggies: Arrange everything in a single layer, place the orange slices on top, and roast for 40 45 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the potatoes are golden-brown. While that’s baking, whip up the salsa by combining diced avocado, orange, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of flaky sea salt in a bowl and tossing gently.

5-Serve: Serve the roasted chicken and veggies topped with that fresh avocado-orange salsa for a burst of freshness. For dietary needs, substitute with tofu or skinless chicken breast and adjust cooking time it’s that flexible! If you’re looking for more chicken ideas, check out our stuffed chicken recipe for another easy twist.

Notes

🍊 Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) before roasting to deepen the citrus flavor.
🥔 For extra‑crisp potatoes, roast the wedges alone for 30 minutes before adding the remaining vegetables and chicken.
🧂 If excess liquid pools on the pan, drain it halfway through cooking to keep the vegetables from steaming.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sheet‑Pan Roasting
• Cuisine: Cuban‑American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx.)
• Calories: 451

Keywords: Cuban chicken, citrus avocado salsa, sheet pan dinner, tropical chicken