Moroccan Spiced Chicken Recipe for All Occasions

Name: Moroccan Spiced Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 3 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Published: June 5, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Moroccan spiced chicken offers an explosion of flavors that bring joy to your palate.
It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for special occasions.
The vivid colors and fragrant spices make it beautiful on any dining table.
Perfectly versatile, you can serve it with rice, couscous, or salad to suit any preference.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop complimenting me. It was such a hit that I felt like a celebrity chef—just without the fancy hat.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs stay juicy and absorb flavors better than breasts—perfect for this recipe.
Garlic: Fresh cloves add depth; avoid pre-minced garlic if you want maximum flavor.
Ground Cumin: This spice brings warmth and earthiness; ensure it’s fresh for the best taste.
Ground Coriander: Adds a delightful citrusy undertone that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds warmth and complexity that transports you straight to Morocco.
Olive Oil: Essential for marinating and cooking; use high-quality extra virgin for the best results.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the chicken.
Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these staples; they enhance all other flavors beautifully.
Fresh Cilantro (Optional): Use as a garnish for color and an extra burst of flavor right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells like heaven!

Add Chicken to Marinade: Place boneless skinless chicken thighs in the marinade mixture ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes—longer is even better!

Sizzle Away!: Heat your skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add marinated chicken thighs when hot enough; listen for that satisfying sizzle as they hit the pan!

Cook Until Golden Brown: Sear each side of the thighs for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You can tell they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Let Them Rest!: Remove from heat and let your beautiful creation rest on a plate covered loosely with foil for about 5 minutes before slicing into it.

Garnish & Serve!: If you’re feeling fancy (and who doesn’t?), sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving. Pair this beauty with rice or couscous to soak up those delicious juices!

Enjoy every bite as you take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey across Morocco!

You Must Know

This Moroccan spiced chicken recipe is a game changer.
The blend of spices creates an aromatic experience, elevating any meal.
Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests; it’s versatile enough for various sides.
Your kitchen will smell irresistible while cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then cook it in a hot skillet for a crispy finish followed by simmering with veggies.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on personal preference or seasonality, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices for unique flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure the chicken stays juicy, avoid overcooking it.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Let it rest before slicing to retain moisture.
Pair with couscous or flatbread for an authentic experience!

The first time I made Moroccan spiced chicken, friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their praise inspired me to make this dish my signature offering at gatherings.

FAQ

What spices are used in Moroccan spiced chicken?

Cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika create that deliciously warm flavor profile.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work beautifully and add extra moisture and tenderness.

Is this dish spicy?

No, the spices are aromatic rather than hot, making it family-friendly for everyone.

0 Shares