Grilled Moroccan Chicken

This Grilled Moroccan Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Infused with vibrant spices and fresh herbs, this dish brings the essence of Moroccan cuisine to your dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe will impress your family and friends alike. The marinade ensures that each bite is tender and packed with flavor, making it one of the best chicken recipes you’ll ever try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Aromatic Flavors: The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon creates a rich and complex taste that delights the palate.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can marinate the chicken and let it soak up the flavors while you go about your day.
• Versatile Dish: Great for summer grilling or cozy indoor cooking! Pair it with salads, couscous, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this grilled chicken is a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it garnished with fresh cilantro for a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Moroccan Chicken, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Mixing bowl
• Gallon-sized resealable bag
• Grill (or grill pan)
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Meat mallet: Ensures even cooking by pounding thicker parts of the chicken breasts.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for whisking together marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Gallon-sized resealable bag: Perfect for marinating chicken without mess. It seals in flavors effectively.
• Instant-read thermometer: Guarantees perfectly cooked chicken by checking doneness quickly.

Ingredients

This flavorful dish requires a few simple ingredients that pack a punch.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 (6 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic (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 Breasts

Pound thicker parts of the chicken breasts using the flat side of a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
– Olive oil
– Lemon juice
– Minced garlic
– Fresh ginger
– Ground cumin
– Ground coriander
– Paprika
– Ground cinnamon
– Turmeric
– Chopped cilantro

Season with salt and pepper (about 3/4 – 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper).

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a gallon-sized resealable bag. Pour the marinade over it and seal the bag while pressing out excess air. Rub the marinade over all sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring some goes between them. Transfer to your refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat to about 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Grill the marinated chicken until its center registers 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer. This usually takes about 4 minutes per side for each 6 oz breast.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate. Cover it to keep warm and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Grilled Moroccan Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Moroccan Chicken

Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing mix of diced cucumbers and ripe tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A hearty salad featuring quinoa, feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs for a delightful contrast.

On Flatbreads

• Pita Bread Wraps: Stuff the grilled chicken into warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce for a quick and tasty meal.
• Naan Bread: Serve pieces of naan topped with grilled chicken and fresh cilantro for an easy-to-eat option.

Accompanied by Dips

• Hummus: This creamy dip complements the spices in the chicken perfectly; serve it on the side for dipping.
• Harissa Sauce: A spicy North African chili paste that adds an extra kick to your grilled chicken.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the chicken just before serving for added flavor.
• Mint Leaves: Add a few mint leaves to brighten up the dish and enhance its aromatic qualities.

How to Perfect Grilled Moroccan Chicken

To achieve mouthwatering Grilled Moroccan Chicken, keep these tips in mind:

• bold Marinate Properly: Allow at least 2 hours for marinating; overnight is even better for deep flavor infusion.
• bold Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
• bold Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy.
• bold Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this keeps it tender and juicy.
• bold Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste or add some heat with chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• bold Serve Warm: Grilled Moroccan Chicken tastes best when served warm, so time your cooking accordingly.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Moroccan Chicken

Pairing Grilled Moroccan Chicken with the right side dishes enhances its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. bold Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous cooked with spices and veggies makes a perfect base for your chicken.
2. bold Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and sweetness.
3. bold Garlic Rice: Aromatic rice sautéed with garlic complements the spices in the chicken beautifully.
4. bold Greek Yogurt Sauce: Creamy yogurt sauce can cool down the spice while adding richness to each bite.
5. bold Tabouli Salad: This herby salad brings a fresh crunch that pairs well with the grilled flavors.
6. bold Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter pitfalls when making Grilled Moroccan Chicken. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: If you don’t allow enough time for the chicken to marinate, it won’t absorb the delicious flavors. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.

• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many chicken breasts on the grill at once can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure each piece cooks thoroughly.

• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can be misleading. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Ignoring Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out, leading to dry meat. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

• Using Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh: Fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match. Always opt for fresh cilantro in this recipe for the best taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Moroccan Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it cools completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Grilled Moroccan Chicken

• Wrap individual chicken portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen grilled chicken can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Moroccan Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15–20 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Moroccan Chicken?

Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a flavorful dish marinated with spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. It’s grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy, aromatic chicken.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While boneless skinless chicken breasts work great, you can also use bone-in pieces. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Grilled Moroccan Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with pita bread for a complete meal.

How long does it take to marinate Grilled Moroccan Chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate it for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Moroccan Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and warmth. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite sides or additional spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful dinner that’s sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Moroccan Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Moroccan Chicken is a culinary journey that brings the vibrant flavors of North Africa right to your kitchen. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in an aromatic blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe easily fits into busy weeknights or special occasions, impressing family and friends alike. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with rich flavors but also ensures it stays tender and juicy while grilling. Serve it garnished with fresh cilantro alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 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

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Instructions

1. Pound the thicker parts of chicken breasts using a meat mallet for even cooking.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, cilantro, salt (3/4 – 1 tsp), and pepper (1/2 tsp).
3. Place chicken in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 425°F).
5. Grill chicken until cooked through (165°F internal temperature), approximately 4 minutes per side.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving garnished with cilantro.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Moroccan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 95mg