Moroccan chicken

Moroccan chicken features tender chicken thighs marinated in aromatic spices, simmered with olives and chickpeas in a rich sauce, served over fluffy couscous for a hearty meal.

27 Nov 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 red onion
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp black pepper
8 chicken thighs
1 cup chicken gravy
1/3 cup olives
1 cup couscous
2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tomatoes
1/3 can canned chickpeas

Moroccan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the rich and exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe combines a variety of spices with tender chicken thighs, olives, and chickpeas, creating a hearty and aromatic meal.Serve it with fluffy couscous, and you have a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prep and Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, turmeric powder, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the spice mixture. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably an hour for better flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced red onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 7-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes, chicken gravy, olives, and chickpeas. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Prepare the Couscous:
- While the chicken is simmering, prepare the couscous according to the package instructions.
- Typically, you'll bring 1 cup of water to a boil, remove it from heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in the cinnamon for added flavor.

5. Serve:
- Serve the Moroccan chicken thighs on a bed of couscous.
- Spoon the sauce, with the tomatoes, olives, and chickpeas, over the chicken and couscous.

6. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Moroccan chicken!

This Moroccan Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of savory spices and tender, juicy chicken, complemented beautifully by the olives and chickpeas. Served over a bed of light and fluffy couscous, it's a dish that's both satisfying and full of unique flavors. With these simple tips, you can bring a taste of Morocco to your dining table and create a meal that everyone will love.

Moroccan chicken FAQ:

What's the cooking time for the chicken thighs?

Cook the chicken thighs for about 7-10 minutes per side in the skillet, or until they are browned and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). After removing them, they will simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes.

How should I store leftovers of Moroccan chicken?

Store leftover Moroccan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or heat it gently on the stove until warmed through.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or drumsticks for the thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts tend to cook faster than thighs.

What can I substitute for chickpeas in this recipe?

If you don't have chickpeas, you can use other beans like cannellini beans or black beans. Alternatively, diced zucchini or eggplant can add a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, the Moroccan chicken can be made a day ahead. Allow it to cool, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors may even improve after a day!

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken thighs in lemon juice, garlic, cumin, turmeric, and black pepper for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- For an enhanced flavor, use fresh spices and toast them lightly before using.

- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can simmer it longer until it reduces to the desired consistency.

- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to add a pinch of salt as needed.

- You can use green or black olives based on your preference for added brininess.

- Fluff the couscous with a fork after cooking to prevent it from clumping together.

- Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as a garnish can enhance the overall flavor and presentation of the dish.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 320kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 3.13g
Sugar 2.98g
Fat 20g

Moroccan chicken