Moroccan Chicken & Rice is a vibrant, aromatic dish that combines succulent chicken thighs with spiced basmati rice, infused with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and oregano for a flavorful Mediterranean experience.
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
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 serve:
Lime wedges
Greek yogurt
Fresh coriander
1. First, marinate the chicken by combining lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add chicken and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an ovenproof skillet. Brown chicken, meaty side down for 5 minutes, then flip for another 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, add 1/4 cup chicken stock, cover and cook 10 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
6.
7. In the same pan, add remaining olive oil, garlic, and onion. Sauté 1 minute. Add turmeric and coriander, cook until onions soften (about 5 minutes). Add rice and stir to coat. Pour in chicken stock and stir.
8.
9. Arrange chicken over rice, cover, and bake for 20 minutes until rice absorbs liquid. Let rest, then fluff rice with a fork before serving. Serve with lime wedges, Greek yogurt, and fresh coriander.
Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Adjust spices to taste.
Use basmati rice for best texture.