When I want a hearty dinner with minimal effort, I turn to one pot dishes such as chicken with carrots and potatoes, Greek chicken and this Moroccan style chicken.
I sometimes find myself with a package of chicken thighs in the fridge and no plans for dinner, which is when I turn to Moroccan chicken. This dish uses ingredients that I almost always have on hand, and it’s always a big hit with both kids and adults alike.
How do you make Moroccan chicken?
This recipe starts with chicken thighs, which are seared in a skillet until golden brown. Add onions to the pan to cook, along with a savory spice blend and a little flour to thicken the sauce. The next step is to pour in some chicken broth and add a handful of raisins. The chicken mixture is covered and baked in the oven until the chicken is tender. Stir in some olives, add a sprinkle of cilantro, then serve and enjoy.
Tips for the perfect chicken
The spice blend can be made up to a month before you plan to use it. I typically make a double or triple batch, and sprinkle the extra spice over potatoes, vegetables and grilled meats. This dish can easily be adapted to cook in the crockpot. Follow the recipe through step 6, then transfer everything over to your slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the olives, lemon juice and cilantro, then serve. Moroccan chicken stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the freezer, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop, then serve.
Moroccan spice blend
This recipe calls for a spice blend that produces just the right level of savory flavors, along with a bit of warmth from sweeter spices such as cinnamon. The spice mix is a combination of cumin, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, coriander and turmeric. You can also add other spices into the mix such as allspice, garlic powder, smoked paprika or onion powder.
Moroccan chicken variations
While I typically make this recipe as written, you can easily add other ingredients to the dish to customize it to your tastes.
Protein: Instead of chicken thighs, try chicken breasts or chicken drumsticks. Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the mix such as carrots, small halved Yukon Gold potatoes or sweet potatoes. Beans: Stir in a can of drained chickpeas before you place your pan in the oven. Fruit: Instead of raisins try diced dried apricots, or use a combination of the two.
This dish is perfect served over couscous with a vegetable on the side. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight, but impressive enough to serve to company!
More chicken recipes you’ll enjoy
Mexican Chicken Soup Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Cajun Chicken Pasta Bacon Wrapped Chicken Honey Mustard Chicken
Moroccan Chicken Video
