There’s something magical about the combination of exotic spices and the simple joy of cooking for loved ones, and our Moroccan Spiced Chicken with Carrots brings that magic to your dinner table. This dish marries the warmth of Moroccan flavors with the natural sweetness of roasted carrots, resulting in a meal that is both comforting and invigorating. Perfect for a family gathering or a special dinner, each bite of this dish is an invitation to savor the essence of togetherness and joy. The recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent adventure for any home cook looking to create something special.
Recipe Summary:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, combine all the spices: cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Toss the carrot sticks with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the spiced chicken thighs on top of the carrots. This allows the chicken juices to flavor the carrots as they cook.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden brown color and the carrots are tender and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and carrots before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges on the side.
Helpful Tips:
- If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.
- Mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added variety and color.
- Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container; reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Pairings:
This Moroccan Spiced Chicken with Carrots pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy couscous or quinoa. Complete your meal with a refreshing cucumber and mint yogurt salad or a simple green salad. A glass of mint tea or a tart lemonade would perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.
At Zynahz, we believe in celebrating creativity and the joy of cooking as a family. This Moroccan Spiced Chicken with Carrots recipe is a testament to the wonderful flavors that can bring us together. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your delicious results with us. Let your friends and family experience the rich flavors of this dish, and stay connected with Zynahz for more inspiring recipes to make your kitchen the heart of your home. Follow us on social media and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates and culinary inspirations. Happy cooking!
