Moroccan Chicken & Rice
A vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken thighs, skinless and boneless Use bone-in for more flavor.
- 2 cups chicken broth Homemade broth is preferable.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain rice Rinse under cold water before use.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped Any color is fine.
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained Can be substituted with lentils.
- ½ cup raisins or dried apricots, chopped For sweetness.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.
- to taste salt and pepper
Garnish
- to taste fresh cilantro or parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken to the skillet. Sear until browned on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Stir to toast the spices for about 1 minute.
- Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains with the spices. Cook for another minute.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, along with the sliced carrots, chickpeas, chopped bell peppers, and raisins or dried apricots.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Serving
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve warm.
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Notes
For a complete meal, serve with warm, crusty bread or a simple side salad. Marinating the chicken ahead of time enhances flavors.