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Moroccan Chicken

Savor Flavorful Moroccan Chicken for a Cozy Weeknight Delight

This Moroccan Chicken recipe combines aromatic spices and tender chicken for a delightful weeknight dinner experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs can substitute with boneless thighs or breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can use a neutral oil if preferred
For the Aromatics
  • 1 cup onion, chopped shallots can work as a substitute
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced fresh cloves are best
For the Spices
  • 2 teaspoons paprika smoked paprika can deepen the flavor
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin no perfect substitute, but coriander complements it
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger fresh ginger is a great alternative
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon essential for authenticity
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric leave out if it's not on hand
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to suit spice tolerance
  • 1 teaspoon salt can use low-sodium options
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste essential addition
  • 2 cups chicken broth vegetable broth works for a lighter touch
  • 1 can diced tomatoes adds acidity and moisture
For the Finish
  • 1 stick cinnamon stick can be omitted
  • 1 medium preserved lemon, chopped fresh lemon zest and juice can be an alternative
  • 0.5 cup green olives substitute with any olives available
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped can be used as a garnish
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Moroccan Chicken
  1. Mix the spices by combining paprika, ground cumin, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, brown the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate to rest.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute.
  4. Add the chicken broth, scraping up browned bits, then stir in the diced tomatoes. Return the chicken to the pot and add the cinnamon stick.
  5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes.
  6. Remove the lid, add preserved lemon and green olives, and sprinkle with cilantro and parsley. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust salt if needed, then serve hot with garnishes alongside couscous or salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results ensure chicken is well-browned before simmering. Adjust cayenne pepper to taste.

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