Moroccan Chicken

Whenever I think about comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is Moroccan Chicken. It’s one of those recipes that transport you right to a bustling market in Marrakech, filled with the incredible aromas of spices mingling in the air. I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was at a friend’s family gathering. The warmth and rich flavors nestled in each bite made it unforgettable. The tender, marinated chicken, infused with vibrant spices, paired beautifully with olives and bright lemon, creating a symphony of flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a story woven with the essence of Moroccan culture.

Each time I make Moroccan Chicken, it feels like a celebration. The process of combining the spices feels almost therapeutic, allowing me to connect with the dish’s roots. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re looking to impress a guest or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this dish is the answer. Trust me, after trying it, you’ll want to keep it on your weekly rotation.

Everything You Need for Moroccan Chicken

Creating the perfect Moroccan Chicken starts with a selection of high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building flavor, from the aromatic spices to the juicy chicken thighs. The key players in this dish are the spices, which bring warmth and depth, and the olives and lemon, which add brightness and contrast. Together, they create a harmonious balance that defines this beloved recipe.

• 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the dish, these thighs provide rich flavor and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthy tones that are characteristic of Moroccan cuisine.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle kick of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a bit more heat, this is a great addition.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle spiciness.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: A hint of sweetness and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander: Offers a citrusy note that complements the other spices.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking and flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a depth of flavor.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for its aromatic punch.
• 1 cup green olives, pitted: Adds brininess and a lovely texture.
• 1 large lemon, sliced: Provides brightness and acidity.
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste: A thickening agent that rounds out the flavors.
• 1 cup chicken broth: For moisture and depth in the sauce.

Cooking Instructions for Moroccan Chicken

Cooking Moroccan Chicken is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with beautiful aromas. Follow these steps to create a dish that will impress everyone at your table.

1. Combine the salt, paprika, cumin, black pepper, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground coriander in a small bowl and set aside. This spice blend is the heart of your dish, offering a warm and aromatic foundation.
2. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Dredge the chicken in the spice mixture on all sides, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Add olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the spiced chicken in the skillet. Cook until well browned on all sides, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. This step develops a delicious crust that locks in the juices.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside temporarily. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until it becomes translucent. This will take about 3 to 4 minutes. The onion will absorb the flavors left in the pan, adding depth to your dish.
5. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for around 10 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
6. Add the sliced lemon and green olives to the skillet, stirring them into the onion and garlic mixture. They will add brightness and tanginess to balance the spices.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and tomato paste. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer for up to 35 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken becomes tender and juicy.
9. After 35 minutes, check the chicken for tenderness. If it’s fork-tender, it’s ready to be served. If not, let it simmer a bit longer.
10. Serve the Moroccan Chicken warm over a bed of fluffy couscous or rice. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the comforting warmth of this dish!

Helpful Notes about Moroccan Chicken

When it comes to making Moroccan Chicken, there are a few things to keep in mind to achieve the best results. Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Storage: Let the leftover Moroccan Chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it from drying out. Alternatively, heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container for 2 to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of warm bread or a fresh salad to balance out the rich flavors.
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley before serving adds a fresh touch and enhances the presentation.

What to Pair With Moroccan Chicken

Serving Moroccan Chicken is all about complementing its bold flavors and aromatic spices. Here are some delightful pairings:

• Couscous: A fluffy bed of couscous is traditional and absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Rice: Serve it over jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant base that balances the rich flavors.
• Fresh Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Warm Bread: Serve with warm pita or crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, special gatherings, or even during festive occasions like Ramadan.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the warmer months, pair with grilled vegetables, while in winter, a side of roasted root veggies works wonders.

FAQ

Conclusion

Moroccan Chicken is truly a remarkable dish that combines warm spices, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors to create a meal that comforts and delights. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of Morocco into your home. You’ll find that it’s not just about the food, but the experience of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Enjoy this culinary adventure!

Moroccan Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful, aromatic dish that's perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken infused with spices and a hint of lemon, it makes for an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Moroccan

Servings 6 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 6 pieces chicken thighs bone-in skin-on for moistness
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion diced
• 5 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup green olives pitted
• 1 large lemon sliced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

 

• Combine the salt, paprika, cumin, black pepper, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground coriander in a small bowl and set aside.
• Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Dredge the chicken in the spice mixture on all sides and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
• Add olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the spiced chicken in the skillet. Cook until well browned on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the sliced lemon and green olives, mixing them into the onion and garlic mixture.
• Whisk together the chicken broth and tomato paste. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet and bring it to a gentle boil.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for up to 35 minutes until the chicken is tender.
• Check the chicken for tenderness. If it’s fork-tender, it’s ready to serve; otherwise, let it simmer a bit longer.
• Serve the Moroccan Chicken warm over a bed of couscous or rice.

Notes

• Storage: Let the leftover Moroccan Chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container for 2 to 3 months.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of warm bread or a fresh salad.
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley before serving adds a fresh touch.

Keyword chicken recipes, Easy Moroccan Chicken, Moroccan Chicken Recipe, Spicy Chicken Dish

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.