Moroccan Chicken & Rice: A Flavorful North African Delight

Moroccan Chicken & Rice is a dish that combines the aromatic flavors of North Africa with the comforting texture of perfectly cooked rice. This recipe blends vibrant spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and oregano with tender chicken, creating a dish that is both visually appealing and delightfully fragrant. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests, this dish brings a taste of Moroccan cuisine straight to your kitchen.

Why Moroccan Chicken & Rice Is a Must-Try

Moroccan cuisine is known for its balance of spices, fresh ingredients, and complex flavors. This Moroccan Chicken & Rice recipe features bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a mixture of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garlic, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. Slow-cooked with aromatic basmati rice, the dish absorbs the richness of chicken stock and spices, resulting in a perfectly tender and flavorful meal.

The combination of bright yellow turmeric, warm cumin, and fragrant coriander not only makes this dish delicious but also visually stunning. It is versatile, easy to prepare, and provides a satisfying and balanced meal for the whole family.

Ingredients That Make This Moroccan Chicken & Rice Unique

For the Chicken

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin optional
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons turmeric
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1/2 tablespoon dried coriander
• 1 1/2 tablespoons oregano
• 6 garlic cloves, crushed
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3 1/2 cups chicken stock
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

To Serve

• Lime wedges
• Greek yogurt
• Fresh coriander

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, oregano, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat and Sear
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken, meaty side down, and cook for 5 minutes until browned. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add 1/4 cup chicken stock, cover, and cook for 10 more minutes.
3. Prepare the Rice Base
   Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add remaining olive oil, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add turmeric and coriander. Cook until onions soften, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the basmati rice until fully coated with the spices and oil, 2–3 minutes.
4. Combine and Bake
   Pour the remaining chicken stock over the rice, stir gently, and arrange the chicken on top. Cover and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid.
5. Finishing Touches
   Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Serve with lime wedges, Greek yogurt, and fresh coriander for a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Tips for Moroccan Chicken & Rice

• Marinating the chicken overnight allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a richer flavor.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicy and tender meat.
• Adjust the spices according to your heat preference. Coriander and turmeric create warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Allowing the dish to rest after baking ensures the rice fully absorbs the aromatic stock.

Nutritional Information

This dish serves 6 and provides approximately 621 kcal per serving. It is a balanced meal rich in protein from chicken, carbohydrates from basmati rice, and healthy fats from olive oil. The spices also contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Moroccan Chicken & Rice combines authenticity with simplicity. Unlike many complex Moroccan recipes, this version is easy to prepare yet packed with bold flavor. The slow-baked chicken ensures tenderness, while the turmeric-infused rice absorbs all the savory juices. Each bite captures the essence of Moroccan cooking: aromatic, colorful, and satisfying.

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