Ah, the magic of grilling! There’s something hypnotic about the sizzle of chicken on a hot grill, especially when it’s infused with the fragrant spices of Morocco. This Easy Grilled Moroccan Chicken is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve traveled the world without leaving your backyard. Imagine serving this to guests on a warm evening, the smoky aroma mingling with laughter and the clinking of glasses—it’s a sensory feast that promises to captivate.
Steps
- Flatten the thicker parts of the chicken breasts using the smooth side of a meat mallet to ensure even thickness.
- In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, expel excess air, and seal. Ensure the marinade coats the chicken well, then refrigerate for 2 to 8 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grill the marinated chicken until its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, approximately 4 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the grill, cover it to keep warm, and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (approximately 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3/4 to 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories 1196 | Calories from Fat 540 | Fat 60g | Saturated Fat 8g | Cholesterol 436mg | Sodium 804mg | Potassium 2624mg | Carbohydrates 12g | Fiber 4g | Sugar 4g | Protein 148g | Vitamin A 1696IU | Vitamin C 28mg | Calcium 88mg | Iron 4mg
FAQ
- How long should I marinate the Moroccan chicken for the best flavor?
- To ensure the chicken absorbs all the flavors, marinate it for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours.
- Can I cook Moroccan chicken without using a grill?
- Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove or bake the chicken breasts in the oven.
- What sides pair well with Grilled Moroccan Chicken?
- Moroccan Couscous with Roasted Vegetables is an excellent side dish that complements the chicken perfectly with its fresh and exciting flavors.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
- Absolutely, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. Just adjust the grilling time to about 6 minutes per side.
- What are some tips for achieving the best flavor in this dish?
- Make sure to use fresh lemon juice and ginger, and do not cut the marinating time short, as these steps are crucial for a flavorful result.
Tips
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours, and up to 8 hours, to allow it to fully absorb the marinade’s rich flavors.
- For the juiciest results, use fresh lemon juice and ginger in the marinade to enhance the taste significantly.
- If using chicken thighs instead of breasts, extend the grilling time to approximately 6 minutes per side to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
- To achieve even cooking, pound the thickest parts of the chicken breast to an even thickness before marinating.
Equipment
- Meat Mallet – For pounding the chicken breasts to even out their thickness.
- Grill or Grill Pan – If you don’t have a standard outdoor grill, a grill pan can be a suitable alternative for stovetop grilling.
- Instant Read Thermometer – To ensure that the chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature.
- Resealable Gallon Size Bags – For marinating the chicken.
- Mixing Bowl – Although common, you might need a specific size or type.
