If you’re craving the bold, irresistible flavors of a Cuban sandwich but want to skip the hassle of assembling one every time, the Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful dish takes the charm of ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles, and that tangy mustard-mayo blend and layers them beautifully over tender chicken cutlets. Baked to perfection, it’s a melt-in-your-mouth, savory sensation that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish keeps it simple but impactful, relying on a handful of classic ingredients that each play a key role. From the punchy dijon mustard and creamy mayo to the salty-sweet combo of deli meats and the zing of pickles, each element enhances the texture and flavor of the Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe in its own way.
- 4 chicken cutlets: Choose thin, even pieces for quick cooking and an ideal surface for layering flavors.
- 3 tablespoons dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick that balances the richness of the mayo and meats.
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps create the signature balsamic spread.
- 4 slices deli ham: Classic Cuban sandwich protein offering a mild, smoky flavor.
- 4 to 8 slices salami: Use the amount that fits your chicken; it brings a spicy, savory depth.
- 1/2 cup pickle chips or 4 long pickle slices + 3 tablespoons pickle juice: This adds the essential sharp, acidic bite characteristic of Cubano flavors.
- 4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, introducing a nutty, creamy layer that ties everything together.
How to Make Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 425° F so it’s ready to create that golden, bubbly finish on your Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe. A hot oven ensures everything cooks evenly and the cheese melts just right.
Step 2: Mix the Mustard and Mayonnaise
In a small bowl, blend together the dijon mustard and mayonnaise until they form a smooth, tangy sauce. This is the magic spread that will infuse the chicken with moisture and that classic Cubano sandwich flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Pour the 3 tablespoons of pickle juice into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then place the chicken cutlets in the dish, spacing them evenly. This little trick of using pickle juice at the bottom keeps the chicken tender and adds a subtle zestiness.
Step 4: Layer the Sauces and Meats
Lightly salt the chicken tops, then spread the mustard-mayo mixture evenly over each cutlet. Next, add a slice of ham and several slices of salami on top—these create the hearty, meaty foundation of the bake.
Step 5: Add Pickles and Cheese
Arrange a row or a handful of pickle slices on each piece of meat, layering in that signature crunch and tang. Then place a slice of Swiss cheese over the top to cover everything beautifully.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfect
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. This traps heat and moisture, ensuring the chicken cooks through without drying out. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Chicken should reach 165° F internally for perfect doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to keep all those juicy flavors locked in.
How to Serve Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little smoked paprika on top for a fresh, colorful touch that brightens up the rich, layered flavors. A squeeze of lime or a few extra pickle chips on the side add a wonderful zing to each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty bake alongside crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or some fluffy rice to soak up the delicious juices. Crispy fries or sweet plantains also complement the savory profile wonderfully, making your meal feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken bake on a rustic wooden board for a casual vibe or in individual ramekins for an elegant touch. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a cold Cuban-style mojito to elevate your meal experience even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain that fresh flavor and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the bake in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350° F until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the cheese melty and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery, preserving the integrity of the Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe’s delightful layers.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for the Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional and melts beautifully, provolone or mozzarella can be tasty alternatives that still deliver a gooey, rich finish.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this bake is naturally gluten-free as long as your deli meats and condiments don’t contain any gluten additives. Always check labels to be sure, but the recipe itself is perfect for a gluten-free diet.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
Chicken breasts work fine if you slice them thinly or pound them to an even thickness to match the texture of cutlets. This ensures quick, even cooking throughout the bake.
How spicy is the Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe?
This recipe is mild, but the salami adds a touch of subtle spice. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes or swap in a spicier variety of salami.
Can I prepare the bake ahead of time before cooking?
Yes! You can assemble the bake the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and pop it into the oven just before dinner. This makes it perfect for busy weekdays or entertaining guests with less last-minute effort.
Final Thoughts
The Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its layers of bold, classic Cuban flavors come together effortlessly in the oven, making it the perfect go-to for those moments when you want something impressive but simple. I can’t recommend enough giving this bake a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner.
Print
Cubano Chicken Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cuban-American
Description
This Cubano Chicken Bake is a delicious oven-baked dish inspired by the classic Cubano sandwich. Tender chicken cutlets are layered with a tangy Dijon mayo spread, savory deli ham, flavorful salami, crisp pickles, and melted Swiss cheese, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 chicken cutlets
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons pickle juice
- Salt, to taste
Toppings
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 to 8 slices salami (depending on size)
- 1/2 cup pickle chips or 4 long pickle slices
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Make the Mustard-Mayo Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until well blended to create a tangy spread.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour 3 tablespoons of pickle juice into a 9×13 baking dish. Place the chicken cutlets in the dish in a single layer and lightly salt the tops.
- Layer the Chicken: Spread an equal amount of the Dijon-mayo mixture over each chicken cutlet. Then, add a slice of ham and appropriately sized pieces of salami on top of each cutlet.
- Add Pickles and Cheese: Arrange pickle chips or long pickle slices in a line over the meats, then top each piece with a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken bake to rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute and flavors meld.
Notes
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through at 165°F.
- Adjust the amount of salami to suit the size of your chicken cutlets and your taste preference.
- For extra crispiness, broil uncovered for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking if desired, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
