Name: Easy Moroccan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces chicken breast (about 2 small breasts); to taste salt and pepper; 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 2 cups cauliflower (cut into bite-sized pieces); 3/4 cup carrot (sliced about 1 large carrot); 1/2 cup sweet onion (roughly chopped); 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger (minced); 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice; 3/4 cup orange juice (not from concentrate); 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes; 2 Medjool dates (sliced); 1/2 cup cilantro (minced, plus additional for garnish); 2 tablespoons roasted pistachios (roughly chopped); 1/2 a small cucumber (thinly sliced)

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There’s something about the aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen that brings back cherished memories of family gatherings. The Easy Moroccan Chicken recipe is a personal favorite of mine, conjuring images of vibrant markets filled with colorful spices and fresh produce. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend’s home; each bite was bursting with flavor, and it instantly became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and bright accents of citrus and herbs creates a symphony of taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
390 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

The magic of the Easy Moroccan Chicken lies in its simplicity and the way it celebrates the natural flavors of its ingredients. Each component works harmoniously, from the sweetness of the carrots to the zesty punch of orange juice. I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I want something that feels extravagant without requiring hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also filled with warmth and comfort.

Why Try This Easy Moroccan Chicken

Rich in Flavor

One of the standout features of the Easy Moroccan Chicken is its complex flavor profile. The warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and allspice bring depth to the dish, while the citrus adds a refreshing note that brightens every bite. This blend of flavors creates a dish that excites the palate, making it perfect for any gathering or family meal.

Versatile and Adaptable

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or even swap out the protein for something different. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge, and you can make it your own. Whether you prefer a more pronounced spice level or want to add a touch of sweetness with dried fruits, this recipe welcomes your personal touch.

Quick and Easy Preparation

With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. The Easy Moroccan Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something special without spending hours cooking. The straightforward process makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, helping you feel confident in the kitchen.

Healthy and Wholesome

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. The use of fresh vegetables like cauliflower and carrots provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken offers a good source of lean protein. It’s a meal that nourishes both the body and soul, making it a smart choice for those focused on healthy eating.

Impressive Presentation

When it comes to serving, the Easy Moroccan Chicken is a showstopper. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and herbs create an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests. Topped with chopped pistachios and fresh cilantro, it presents beautifully on any table, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a meal at home.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Easy Moroccan Chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. This not only makes for convenient meal prep but also allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the taste!

The Easy Moroccan Chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous, rice, or even a light salad. For a refreshing side, consider serving it with sliced cucumbers or a tangy yogurt sauce. This balance of flavors complements the spices perfectly and creates a well-rounded meal.

Yes! The Easy Moroccan Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a batch and divide it into containers for the week. It reheats well, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners. Just keep in mind to store it in airtight containers to maintain freshness!

Definitely! While the Easy Moroccan Chicken is designed with chicken in mind, you can easily adapt it to use other proteins. Consider substituting with turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary if using different proteins!

Conclusion

The Easy Moroccan Chicken is a true testament to how simple ingredients can create a spectacular dish. With its tantalizing spices and colorful presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe for your next dinner; it’s not just a meal, but a delicious adventure waiting to happen!

Easy Moroccan Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, the Easy Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that makes for an easy weeknight dinner. Bursting with spices and vibrant ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for impressing your family or guests, make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Moroccan

Calories: 390

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

8 ounces chicken breast about 2 small breasts
to taste salt and pepper
1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 cups cauliflower cut into bite-sized pieces
3/4 cup carrot sliced about 1 large carrot
1/2 cup sweet onion roughly chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger minced
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
3/4 cup orange juice not from concentrate
1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
2 Medjool dates sliced
1/2 cup cilantro minced, plus additional for garnish
2 tablespoons roasted pistachios roughly chopped
1/2 a small cucumber thinly sliced

Equipment

Large Pot
Baking Sheet
Skillet
Saucepan
Chef's Knife
Frying pan
Wooden Spoon

Method

Using a meat mallet (or a rolling pin), pound out the chicken breasts until they are flat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breast until golden brown, about 1 to 1.5 minutes. Flip and repeat on the other side. Transfer to a plate.
Turn the heat down to medium and add the cauliflower, carrot, onion, ginger, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and allspice to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the veggies just begin to soften and the spices are fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the orange juice, crushed tomatoes, and dried dates. Turn the heat up to high and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins reducing and thickening, about 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken back into the pan, nestle it into the veggies, and spoon some sauce on top. Cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside, about 10 minutes.
Stir in the cilantro, then divide the chicken between two plates. Top each with the chopped pistachios, and serve with the sliced cucumbers on the side.
Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations: Experiment with different vegetables or spices to make this dish your own.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with couscous or rice for a complete meal.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover chicken in salads or wraps for a quick lunch.