This Grilled Moroccan Chicken recipe is a delightful addition to your dinner rotation! Infused with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, this dish is not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough for casual weeknight meals or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant Flavors: The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon creates a unique taste that transports you straight to Morocco.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken breasts and fresh ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Marinade Magic: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness, making every bite juicy and delicious.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with couscous, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Grilled Moroccan Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowl
- Gallon size resealable bag
- Grill
- Instant-read thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Meat mallet: Helps to evenly pound the chicken breasts, ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of the marinade ingredients.
- Grill: Provides high heat necessary for perfectly grilling the chicken to juicy perfection.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful Grilled Moroccan Chicken:
- 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 Tbsp peeled and minced fresh ginger
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus more for serving)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Grilled Moroccan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound thicker parts of the chicken breasts with the flat side of a meat mallet to even out their thickness. This step ensures they cook evenly on the grill.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and cilantro. Season with about 3/4 – 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag while pressing out excess air. Rub the marinade over all sides of each breast. Make sure some marinade gets between them as well. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Grill each chicken breast until its center registers 165 degrees Fahrenheit on an instant-read thermometer. This usually takes about 4 minutes per side for six-ounce chicken breasts.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Transfer grilled chicken to a plate. Cover it to keep warm and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with additional cilantro before serving warm.
How to Serve Grilled Moroccan Chicken
Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your chicken dish.
As a Main Course
- Serve the grilled chicken whole or sliced on a platter for an impressive presentation. Pair it with a fresh salad for a light, healthy meal.
In a Wrap
- Slice the grilled chicken and wrap it in flatbreads or tortillas with fresh veggies and sauces. This makes for a quick and tasty lunch option.
Over Couscous
- Place the grilled chicken atop a bed of fluffy couscous, garnished with extra cilantro for an authentic Moroccan experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer various dipping sauces, such as yogurt sauce or spicy harissa, alongside the chicken to enhance its flavors and add variety to each bite.
How to Perfect Grilled Moroccan Chicken
To ensure your Grilled Moroccan Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips:
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. This helps the spices penetrate the meat, making it flavorful and juicy.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. A preheated grill ensures nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Moroccan Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Moroccan Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
- Couscous Salad: A refreshing salad made from couscous mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds texture and flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs complement the aromatic spices of the chicken.
- Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita bread and veggies for a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken.
- Mint Yogurt Sauce: This cool sauce offers a refreshing balance to the warm spices in the chicken.
- Tabbouleh Salad: A parsley-based salad mixed with bulgur wheat brings freshness and lightness to your meal.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds another layer of flavor alongside your savory chicken dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Moroccan Chicken, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Skipping the Marinade Time: Failing to marinate the chicken for enough time can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor infusion.
Using Cold Chicken: Starting with cold chicken can cause uneven cooking. Let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before grilling.
Not Preheating the Grill: Skipping preheating can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 425 degrees) for optimal results.
Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill at once can lead to steaming rather than grilling. Give each piece enough space for proper heat circulation.
Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature can result in undercooked or dry chicken. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Grilled Moroccan Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Grilled Moroccan Chicken
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Grilled Moroccan Chicken
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover. Cook for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grilled Moroccan Chicken?
Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful dish that features marinated chicken breasts infused with spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. It’s grilled to perfection, offering a deliciously unique taste that’s hard to resist.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! You can definitely substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.
How spicy is Grilled Moroccan Chicken?
This recipe is not very spicy since it focuses on aromatic spices rather than heat. If you prefer more spice, consider adding chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
What should I serve with Grilled Moroccan Chicken?
Pair it with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The bright flavors complement various sides beautifully!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This enhances convenience without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors and aromas right to your dinner table. Its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides or modify the spices according to your preference. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you might just find it becomes one of your family favorites!
Grilled Moroccan Chicken
Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings a taste of North Africa to your dinner table. With its aromatic blend of spices and fresh herbs, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds. The chicken is marinated in a zesty mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and earthy spices like cumin and coriander, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for casual family dinners or festive gatherings, this versatile chicken dish pairs beautifully with couscous, salads, or flatbreads. Quick to prepare and easy to make, Grilled Moroccan Chicken will elevate any meal occasion while impressing friends and family alike.
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, spices, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag; pour marinade over it, seal the bag while removing excess air, and rub the marinade into the chicken.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (425°F).
- Grill each chicken breast for about 4 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like mint or parsley as garnish. Serve alongside yogurt sauce or spicy harissa for extra zest. Substitute chicken thighs for more juiciness if desired.
