Moroccan Chicken from True Food Kitchen features tender, spiced chicken marinated with aromatic cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, served over fluffy couscous with a vibrant medley of sauteed peppers and dried apricots, offering a flavorful fusion of savory and sweet notes.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Saute pan
- Tongs
- Saucepan (for couscous)
- Lid (for saucepan)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Plate or serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 orange bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 1/2 cup dried apricots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
The key spices in this Moroccan Chicken recipe--cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and turmeric--must be fresh and finely ground to deliver their full aromatic potential and blend perfectly with the tender chicken thighs. You should use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the overall saltiness in the couscous, ensuring the balance between savory and sweet from the dried apricots is not overwhelmed. Fresh bell peppers and red onion add vibrant color and natural sweetness, so select firm, brightly colored vegetables to maintain texture and flavor during sauteing. When zesting and juicing the lemon, avoid including the bitter white pith to keep the marinade bright and tangy without bitterness. This Moroccan Chicken from True Food Kitchen copycat dish highlights a harmonious combination of spices and fresh ingredients, paired with fluffy couscous and a colorful medley of sauteed vegetables and dried apricots for a flavorful, authentic experience.
Instructions
- Combine cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Zest and juice the lemon; set aside.
- Mince garlic; set aside.
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place in mixing bowl.
- Add half of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and half of lemon juice to chicken and spices.
- Mix chicken thoroughly to coat; marinate for 20-30 minutes.
- Dice red, yellow, and orange bell peppers.
- Slice red onion.
- Chop dried apricots.
- Chop cilantro and parsley.
- Heat sauté pan over medium-high heat and add remaining olive oil.
- Add marinated chicken pieces to pan; cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In same pan, add bell peppers and red onion; sauté until softened.
- Stir in dried apricots; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- In saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil.
- Stir in couscous, butter, and remaining lemon juice; cover with lid and remove from heat.
- Let couscous steam for 5 minutes, then fluff with fork.
- To serve, spoon couscous onto plate or serving dish.
- Top couscous with sautéed peppers, onions, and apricots.
- Place cooked chicken on top of vegetables.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Moroccan Chicken from True Food Kitchen copycat menu allows flexibility in ingredient substitutions to accommodate your pantry or dietary preferences. If boneless, skinless chicken thighs are unavailable, chicken breasts can be used but may require shorter cooking time to maintain juiciness. You can substitute dried apricots with raisins, dried cherries, or even chopped dates for a similarly sweet contrast. When fresh bell peppers are out of season, frozen mixed peppers can simplify the preparation without compromising flavor. For a gluten-free variation, easily replace couscous with quinoa or cauliflower rice, adjusting the broth quantity accordingly.
Tips
Marinate your chicken for the full 20-30 minutes to ensure the spices and lemon juice penetrate, creating a tender, flavorful bite. While cooking the couscous, avoid lifting the lid during steaming to keep it fluffy and light. Use a sharp chef's knife for evenly cutting the bell peppers and chicken pieces, which allows for even cooking and better texture. Remember to season your sauteed vegetables lightly before combining with chicken to balance the savory and sweet flavors from the dried apricots and spices.
Nutritions
Moroccan Chicken from True Food Kitchen provides a nutrient-rich meal with lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken thighs combined with antioxidant-packed spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, which support digestion and inflammation reduction. The dish includes a vibrant mix of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, adding vitamins A and C for immune support, and dried apricots, which offer dietary fiber and natural sweetness. Couscous serves as a light, whole grain base providing carbohydrates for sustained energy. Your meal is enhanced with healthy fats from olive oil and fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley that contribute essential vitamins and minerals.
Storage
Store your Moroccan Chicken in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate cooked chicken and couscous separately for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the sauteed peppers and apricots are added just before reheating for optimal texture. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap boneless, skinless chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time to prevent dryness. Instead of dried apricots, try golden raisins or chopped dried figs to maintain the sweet contrast with the savory spices. For a nuttier texture and flavor, toast slivered almonds or pine nuts and sprinkle them over the finished dish. Experimenting with quinoa instead of couscous offers a protein-rich alternative, perfect for those seeking gluten-free grains.
Allergies
This Moroccan Chicken recipe contains common allergens such as chicken and butter, which may affect those with dairy or poultry allergies. The couscous includes gluten, presenting a risk for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should take care if you have sensitivities to spices like cinnamon, cumin, or turmeric, as they can cause reactions in some people.
Why this recipe?
Moroccan Chicken from True Food Kitchen is cherished for its vibrant blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and harissa, which deliver an authentic and aromatic taste experience. The dish boasts tender, perfectly cooked chicken paired with nutrient-rich ingredients such as chickpeas, preserved lemons, and fresh herbs, aligning with True Food Kitchen's wellness-focused philosophy. You can recreate this flavorful meal at home to enjoy its health benefits and bold flavors, making it a rewarding option for culinary enthusiasts seeking nutritious and delicious eats. Replicating the recipe allows you to customize seasoning levels and savor the fresh ingredients that define this standout dish.