Moroccan Chicken I

Moroccan Chicken I Recipe - A Mouth-Watering Dish with Figs and White Wine

Region / culture: Morocco | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6 hours (slow cooker) or 2 hours (oven) | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Moroccan Chicken I is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with a blend of spices, dried figs, and tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests with its exotic flavors.

History

Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations of spices. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Moroccan cooking techniques and ingredients, such as dried fruits and aromatic spices like allspice and thyme.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) chicken, cut into serving pieces or 4 split chicken breasts
8 dried figs, snipped
1 can (8 oz or 227 g) tomato sauce
0.5 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.25 cup white wine or apple juice
2 bay leaves
0.5 tsp ground allspice
1 tsp dried thyme leaves
0.5 cup chopped green pepper (optional)
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds or 2 tbsp slivered almonds

How to prepare

Skin the chicken.
Place the chicken in a pot or a hearty skillet.
Add all the remaining ingredients, except for sesame seeds or almonds.
Cover the pot and cook the chicken in a slow cooker for about 6 hours, or cook it in the oven on low heat for about 2 hours.
For faster cooking, bring the pot to a boil on the stovetop, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 20–35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or almonds on top of the cooked chicken before serving.

Variations

Substitute dried apricots or prunes for the dried figs.
Add a pinch of saffron for a more authentic Moroccan flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavors of the dish, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours before cooking.

- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless chicken breasts.

- Adjust the amount of spices and dried fruits to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Moroccan Chicken I over couscous or rice for a complete meal.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking or braising the chicken allows the flavors to meld together and creates a tender, juicy dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts.

- Substitute apple cider for apple juice.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Moroccan Chicken I in a decorative tagine or serving dish for an authentic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 15g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 45g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains nuts (almonds)

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and fiber, and is rich in vitamins and minerals. However, it is high in fat and carbohydrates, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Moroccan Chicken I is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Morocco to your dinner table. With a blend of spices, dried fruits, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful meal with a side of couscous or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that had been passed down to me from my own mother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and faded clippings, one particular recipe caught my eye. It was for Moroccan Chicken, a dish I had never tried before but was eager to experiment with.

I could almost smell the aromatic spices and hear the sizzle of the chicken as it cooked in the pan. The recipe seemed simple enough, with ingredients like cumin, cinnamon, and saffron, but it also had an air of mystery and exoticism that intrigued me.

I decided to give it a try that very evening. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the onions and garlic, toasted the spices, and browned the chicken, I could feel the anticipation building. The kitchen was filled with the tantalizing scents of cinnamon and cumin, and I knew that I was onto something special.

As the dish simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever experienced before – warm and earthy, with a hint of sweetness from the dried apricots and honey. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.

I served the Moroccan Chicken over a bed of fluffy couscous, garnished with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro. My family gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up as they took their first bite. The dish was met with rave reviews, and I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly remarkable.

In the days and weeks that followed, I found myself making Moroccan Chicken again and again. Each time, I tweaked the recipe slightly, adding a bit more spice here, a touch more sweetness there. I experimented with different variations, incorporating ingredients like preserved lemons and olives to give the dish a more authentic Moroccan flair.

One day, as I was preparing the dish for a dinner party, a dear friend stopped by to visit. She took one whiff of the fragrant spices wafting from the kitchen and begged me for the recipe. I gladly shared it with her, knowing that this dish was meant to be enjoyed and passed on to others.

Over the years, I have shared my recipe for Moroccan Chicken with countless friends and family members. Each time, I am met with the same enthusiasm and delight that I experienced the first time I made it. It has become a beloved tradition in my household, a dish that never fails to bring joy and comfort to those who taste it.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Moroccan Chicken, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey it has taken me on. It has not only brought me closer to my own heritage and roots but has also allowed me to connect with others through the shared experience of food and cooking.

I am reminded of the power of a simple recipe to transcend time and distance, bringing people together in a common love for good food and good company. And for that, I am forever grateful. So the next time you find yourself in possession of a mysterious and intriguing recipe, don't hesitate to give it a try. You never know where it might lead you.