Moroccan Spiced Chicken: A 30-Minute Flavorful Escape

This Moroccan Spiced Chicken recipe is your new weeknight go-to for an incredibly flavorful, juicy, and aromatic meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. We’re talking tender chicken coated in a rich, warm blend of Moroccan spices, cooked to perfection. It’s a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare but is simple enough for even the busiest of days. Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to Marrakesh!

We developed this recipe to be as straightforward as possible without sacrificing a single drop of authentic flavor. It’s versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Say goodbye to boring chicken dinners forever.

Why You’ll Adore This Moroccan Spiced Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both impressive and effortless, you’ve found it. This dish is packed with benefits that make it a clear winner for any home cook.

• Incredibly Flavorful: The homemade Moroccan spice blend, featuring cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger, creates a deep, aromatic flavor profile that is simply irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in less than 30 minutes, this is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight when you’re craving something special but are short on time.
• Healthy and Lean: Using lean chicken breast makes this a high-protein, healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Super Versatile: This chicken is amazing on its own, but it also shines in salads, wraps, or served over couscous or rice.

The Heart of the Dish: The Moroccan Spice Blend

The magic of this dish lies in its spice blend. While you can use a store-bought Ras el hanout, making your own is incredibly simple and allows you to control the flavors. Our blend is perfectly balanced for a warm, earthy, and slightly sweet aroma that beautifully complements the chicken.

What You’ll Need for the Spice Mix

Gather these common pantry spices to create the signature flavor:

• Coriander & Cumin: These form the earthy, warm base of our blend.
• Paprika: Adds a beautiful color and a mild, sweet flavor.
• Turmeric: For its vibrant color and subtle, earthy notes.
• Cinnamon & Allspice: Introduce a hint of warmth and sweetness that is characteristic of Moroccan cuisine.
• Ginger & Black Pepper: Provide a gentle, warming kick to round out the flavors.

Ingredients for Moroccan Spiced Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious meal to life. The ingredients are simple, but together they create something truly special.

• Chicken: We use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking. You can also use chicken thighs.
• Olive Oil: To help the spices adhere to the chicken and ensure a beautiful sear.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up all the flavors.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an essential layer of aromatic flavor.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: For a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Make Moroccan Spiced Chicken Step-by-Step

Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time. It’s a straightforward process that delivers incredible results.

1. Create the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine all the spices: paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and toss again until every piece is evenly coated.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately.

For a complete meal, this chicken pairs beautifully with our Roasted Moroccan Cauliflower for a cohesive and flavor-packed dinner.

Tips for Recipe Success

Want to ensure your Moroccan Spiced Chicken is absolutely perfect? Here are a few tips from our kitchen to yours.

• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This ensures the chicken sears and develops a beautiful crust rather than steaming.
• Marinate for More Flavor: If you have an extra 30 minutes, allow the chicken to marinate in the spice blend and olive oil before cooking. This will intensify the flavor even more.
• Adjust Spices to Your Liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of each spice. If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Check for Doneness: The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken can be the star of many different meals. Try serving it over a bed of fluffy couscous or this simple Spanish Rice Recipe. It’s also delicious with a side of warm pita bread and a dollop of yogurt or hummus. For a hearty and comforting option, pair it with a Winter Vegetable Casserole.

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage is key to enjoying your leftovers. Let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or gently warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled Moroccan Chicken: Thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or zucchini during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking for a complete one-pan meal.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.

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Your New Favorite Chicken Dinner

This Moroccan Spiced Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to a world of flavor that’s accessible any night of the week. It’s a dish you’ll be proud to serve and one your family will ask for again and again. We can’t wait to hear how you enjoy it!

If you make this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment and share your creation on Pinterest! Your feedback helps our community of home cooks grow.

Moroccan Spiced Chicken: A 30-Minute Flavorful Escape

Discover the best Moroccan Spiced Chicken recipe! This quick, easy, and aromatic dish is ready in under 30 minutes, packed with authentic spices for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: African, Moroccan

Calories: 285

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro chopped, for garnish
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp salt or to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Equipment

• 1 Large Skillet
• 2 Mixing bowls

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry and place them in a medium bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken and mix until every piece is thoroughly coated.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if needed). Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one more minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an even deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate in the spices and olive oil for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking.
Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the chicken to get a beautiful sear.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.