Mojo Chicken with Blistered Corn
Citrusy mojo-seared chicken thighs pair with cumin rice and sweet September corn for a practical Cuban-inspired dinner.
- Total time: 45 min
- Servings: 2 servings
- Estimated total cost: $12
- Calories per serving: 740 cal
- Stovetop
Ingredients
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Boneless skinless chicken thighs12 ounces $5.99
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Bi-color corn2 ears $0.79
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Organic long grain white rice3/4 cup $4.49
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Navel orange1 $1.99
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Lime1 $0.69
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Sweet onion1/2 medium $1.79
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Cilantro1/4 cup chopped $1.19
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Garlic3 cloves
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Extra-virgin olive oil2 tablespoons
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Diamond Crystal kosher salt2 3/4 teaspoons
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Ground cumin1 teaspoon
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Dried oregano1/2 teaspoon
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Ground turmeric1/4 teaspoon
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Black pepper1/2 teaspoon
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Water1 1/4 cups
Instructions
Swipe a step aside or click its number when it’s done.
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Pat 12 ounces boneless skinless chicken thighs dry and season all over with 1 1/2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt. Let stand for 15 minutes while preparing the mojo and rice.
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Make the mojo by whisking together:
- Zest and juice of 1 navel orange
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 3 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Reserve 1 tablespoon mojo as citrus dressing. After the chicken has salted for 15 minutes, coat it with the rest of the mojo and marinate for 10 minutes.
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While the chicken seasons, heat 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add:
- 1/4 medium sweet onion, finely diced
- 3/4 cup organic long grain white rice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
Stir for 2 minutes, then add 1 1/4 cups water. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing.
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Cut the kernels from 2 ears bi-color corn. Finely dice 1/4 medium sweet onion and chop 1/4 cup cilantro; keep them ready for the skillet.
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Heat 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lift the chicken from the mojo, letting the excess drip off, and discard that used marinade. Sear the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side, adjusting the heat to prevent scorching, until its thickest part reaches 175°F. Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes.
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Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil. Add the prepared corn, prepared diced onion, and 3/4 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt; cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until blistered and tender. Remove from the heat and fold in the prepared cilantro and reserved citrus dressing.
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Divide the cumin rice between two plates, top with the rested mojo chicken, and spoon the blistered corn alongside. Drizzle any clean resting juices from the chicken over the top.
Want more detail? See the temperature guide.
Drink pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the citrus mojo and sweet, smoky corn.