- Chicken pieces (thighs, legs, or whole chickens)
- Cubano spices: garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, bay leaves
- Lime juice: fresh-squeezed for flavor
- Achiote paste: adds color and unique flavor to the chicken
- Olive oil: for sautéing aromatics
- Onion: finely chopped, enhances depth of flavor
- Minced garlic: boosts overall taste
- White wine or beer: optional but helps tenderize the meat
- Salt: to season the chicken properly
- Black pepper: for a classic flavor profile
- Cubed potatoes: serves as a base and cooks alongside the chicken
- Carrots: adds color and nutrition, cooks with the chicken
- Fresh cilantro: for garnish or added at the end of cooking
- Water or chicken broth: enough to cover the ingredients in the slow cooker
Steps
### Cuban-Style Slow Cooker Mojo Chicken Recipe
Looking to prepare a delicious and flavorful meal that's perfect for family dinners or lazy weekend days? Try this easy-to-make Cuban-style slow cooker mojo chicken recipe! This dish is packed with rich flavors from the traditional Cuban marinade, known as "Mojo," which includes garlic, lime juice, and spices. Here’s how you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave your guests wanting more.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 (4-pound) whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 3 limes, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
Start by washing your chicken pieces thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking.
**Step 2: Create the Mojo Marinade**
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped onions, minced garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and zest, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
**Step 3: Marinate the Chicken**
Place the chicken pieces in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the mojo marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's coated well. Cover with a lid to keep everything moist and flavorful during cooking.
**Step 4: Cook on Low Heat**
Set your slow cooker to "Low" heat. Cook for about 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender when pierced with a fork. The low heat will help the flavors meld together, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful chicken.
**Step 5: Serve**
Once done, remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs. Shred the meat gently into bite-sized pieces if desired, or serve it as is. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.
#### Tips:
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
- Serve this mojo chicken with sides like rice, beans, or plantains to complete the traditional Cuban meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently when needed.
By following these steps, you can easily enjoy a delicious Cuban-style slow cooker mojo chicken that's perfect for any occasion!