This Chicken Cuban Sandwich is hands down one of the best things you can make for lunch or dinner. Packed with flavor and so satisfying, it comes together quickly and tastes like something you'd order at your favorite restaurant!
Did You Know?
Pro Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is a chicken Cuban sandwich different from a traditional Cubano?
A chicken Cubano replaces the classic roasted pork with mojo-marinated grilled or roasted chicken. The mustard, Swiss cheese, ham, and pickles remain the same.
2. How should I prepare the chicken for a Cuban sandwich?
Marinate chicken breast in mojo sauce (sour orange juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, olive oil) for at least 2 hours, then grill or roast until 165°F and slice thin.
3. What is mojo marinade?
Mojo is a Cuban citrus-garlic sauce made from sour orange juice (or a mix of orange and lime juice), minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and olive oil. It is the foundation of Cuban flavor.
4. Can I use rotisserie chicken for a quick version?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken tossed with a quick mojo sauce makes an excellent shortcut. The pressing and toasting still gives you authentic Cubano texture and flavor.
5. Do I still use ham with the chicken?
Yes — thinly sliced ham is still layered in alongside the chicken. The combination of two proteins with Swiss cheese and pickles is what defines the Cuban sandwich experience.
6. What bread works if I cannot find Cuban bread?
A soft French baguette or Italian roll with a thin crust and soft interior is the best substitute. The bread must be soft enough to press flat without shattering.
7. How long do I press a chicken Cuban sandwich?
Press for 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat until the bread is golden and crispy, the cheese is fully melted, and the sandwich is compressed to about half its original height.
8. Can I meal prep chicken Cuban sandwiches?
Prep the mojo chicken and store it for up to 3 days. Assemble and press the sandwiches fresh when ready to eat — a pre-pressed Cubano loses its crispy texture.
9. What dipping sauce goes with a chicken Cubano?
A garlic aioli, extra mojo sauce for dipping, or a spicy mustard are all excellent accompaniments. Traditional Cubanos are served without sauce — the flavors are complete as-is.
10. What sides pair with a chicken Cuban sandwich?
Cuban black beans and rice (Moros y Cristianos), plantain chips, yuca fries, or a simple tropical fruit salad are all authentic Cuban accompaniments.
Watch How to Make This
Chicken Cuban Sandwich
Ingredients
Method
- Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and carefully slice them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces.
- Using a meat tenderizer or a rolling pin, gently pound the chicken halves to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick.
- Season the pounded chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and lime juice. Mix well to form a marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts, ensuring they're well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
- Grill the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- While the chicken is resting, slice the Cuban sandwich rolls in half horizontally.
- After slicing your bread, spread yellow mustard on each side before assembling the sandwiches.
- Place two slices of deli ham on top of the bottom half of each roll.
- Add two slices of dill pickle on top of the ham on each roll.
- Place sliced grilled chicken breasts on top of the pickles on each roll.
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the chicken on each roll.
- Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a bit of butter or olive oil.
- Place the sandwiches on the skillet and press them down firmly with a heavy pan or a sandwich press.
- Cook until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat and slice each sandwich in half.
- Serve the Cuban sandwiches hot with extra dill pickles on the side if desired.
- Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cuban Sandwiches with a side of plantain chips or a fresh salad.
Notes
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
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