Chicken with cinnamon and lemon is not only spicy but also incredibly delicious. This recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Here's how you can create this authentic Moroccan delicacy in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken leg quarters (about 3 pounds)
- 1 small container of yogurt (about 6 oz, optional)
- 3-4 oz package of nuts (optional, roasted almonds recommended)
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Prunes
- Lemon Juice
- Stock
- Couscous
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Sprinkle half of the spice blend over the chicken. In a large pan, cook the chicken in two batches for about 5 minutes, or until evenly browned.
Step 2: Adding the Flavors
Return the chicken to the pan, and add the lemon juice and the remaining spice blend. Add the stock and prunes to the pan, and bring to a boil.
Step 3: Cooking to Perfection
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the liquid has reduced to a sauce. Baste chicken with sauce a few times during baking. With the chicken on top, it will brown nicely.
Step 4: Preparing the Couscous
About 10 minutes before the chicken is ready, place the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Add 1 1/2 cups of boiling water and let it stand for 3-5 minutes. Stir in the remaining butter and fluff with a fork until the butter has melted and the grains separate.
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Step 5: Serving
Serve the Moroccan Style Chicken with Prunes over a bed of fluffy couscous. Garnish with some dried nuts.
For a more interesting texture, consider adding nuts such as peanuts, almonds, cashew pieces, or pistachios.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Blend: Combine easy-to-get Middle Eastern spices like paprika and cumin.
- Yogurt: Fold in creamy yogurt with the spices for added richness.
- Nuts: Sprinkle dried nuts for a delightful crunch.
- Prunes: Dried prunes sweeten this baked chicken entree.
Additional Notes
If you are using breast meat only, reduce baking time by 15 minutes.
You can also make a simpler version with just chicken, prunes, liquid (white wine or stock), salt, and pepper. Just add a cup of stock to chicken pieces and prunes, then season, and bake uncovered for an hour.
This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends.
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tags: #Moroccan
