Introduction

Welcome to another culinary adventure with Zynahz! Today, we’re diving into the rich and aromatic world of Moroccan cuisine with our Spicy Moroccan Chicken. This dish is a beautiful tapestry of flavors, perfect for family gatherings or any seasonal occasion. Picture a cozy evening with the warm, inviting essence of Moroccan decor, and the tantalizing aroma of spiced chicken wafting through the air. It’s more than a meal; it’s a celebration of creativity and family bonding.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 4

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices with the onion and garlic for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to toast and release their flavors.
  5. Add the tomato paste and mix well. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of each thigh. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  8. Remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Helpful Tips

  • Make it mild: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a less spicy version.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Spicy Moroccan Chicken is sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and a burst of exotic flavors to your table. We can’t wait to see your creations, so be sure to share them using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website Zynahz, subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and follow us on social media for more delicious inspirations. Happy cooking!