Moroccan Chicken(4 To 6 Servings)
Moroccan Chicken combines fragrant spices with tender chicken and vegetables, served over rice for a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken with meaty portions along the outside of a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Add chopped onions and sliced carrots to the dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon rind, paprika, ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon.
- Pour the spice mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover the dish and microwave at High power for 22 to 27 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Rotate the dish 1/2 turn after 10 minutes during cooking.
- Serve the cooked chicken and vegetables over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spice mixture for a couple of hours before cooking. If you don't have fresh ginger, ground ginger is a suitable substitute. For a twist, add dried fruit like apricots or raisins to the dish for a sweet contrast. Make sure to check the doneness of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Moroccan Chicken over the cooked rice for a hearty meal. A side of Bright Green Beans provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. For a complete experience, consider pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or warm pita bread. This dish is also great for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when reheated.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Moroccan Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Moroccan Chicken(4 To 6 Servings) contains roughly 510 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1015mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of cut-up chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken pieces will work well for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in pieces may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
What can I serve with Moroccan Chicken?
Besides rice, consider serving the Moroccan Chicken with couscous, which complements the flavors beautifully. You can also serve it with a yogurt sauce or chutney for added creaminess and tang. A light salad with citrus dressing can balance the richness of the chicken.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Moroccan Chicken can be prepared up to a day in advance. Cook it, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently. This dish's flavors will actually improve after sitting, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).