Moroccan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, a testament to centuries of cultural exchange and culinary innovation. It’s a cuisine that tantalizes the senses with its complex spice blends, aromatic herbs, and the harmonious marriage of sweet and savory elements. Today, we’re embarking on a culinary journey to explore one of its most accessible and delightful expressions: Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers. This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
**Why Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers?**
These skewers offer a delightful alternative to the usual grilled chicken. The Moroccan spice blend, known as *Ras el Hanout*, is the star of the show, infusing the chicken with a warm, fragrant, and slightly exotic flavor profile. The marinade also typically includes ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, which help to tenderize the chicken and create a juicy, flavorful result. The skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments, from couscous and salads to grilled vegetables and yogurt dips. They are also a great way to introduce yourself to the exciting world of Moroccan cuisine without feeling overwhelmed.
**The Heart of the Matter: Ras el Hanout**
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about *Ras el Hanout*. This literally translates to “head of the shop” or “top shelf,” and it signifies that this spice blend is the best the spice merchant has to offer. There is no single, definitive recipe for *Ras el Hanout*; instead, it’s a highly personalized blend that can contain anywhere from a dozen to over thirty different spices. Common ingredients include cinnamon, cumin, coriander, ginger, turmeric, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, paprika, chili powder, and even dried rose petals or lavender. The exact composition varies depending on the region, the spice merchant, and the cook’s preferences.
While you can certainly create your own *Ras el Hanout* blend, it’s also readily available in most well-stocked grocery stores or online spice retailers. Buying a pre-made blend is a convenient way to get started, especially if you’re new to Moroccan cooking. As you become more familiar with the flavors, you can experiment with adding or subtracting spices to create your own signature blend.
**Ingredients:**
* **Chicken:** 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes. Chicken thighs tend to be more forgiving and remain juicier during grilling, but breasts work well too.
* **Olive Oil:** 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil. This helps to tenderize the chicken and carry the flavors of the marinade.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity helps to tenderize the chicken and brightens the flavor profile.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic is a cornerstone of many cuisines and adds a pungent, savory note.
* **Ginger:** 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated. Ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy, and aromatic element.
* **Ras el Hanout:** 2 tablespoons *Ras el Hanout* spice blend. This is the key to the Moroccan flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your preference.
* **Turmeric:** 1 teaspoon ground turmeric. Turmeric adds a warm, earthy flavor and a beautiful golden color.
* **Paprika:** 1 teaspoon sweet paprika. Paprika adds a subtle sweetness and a vibrant red hue.
* **Cumin:** 1 teaspoon ground cumin. Cumin adds a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor.
* **Coriander:** 1 teaspoon ground coriander. Coriander adds a citrusy, floral, and slightly sweet flavor.
* **Cayenne Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional). Add this for a touch of heat.
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
* **Fresh Cilantro:** 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish).
* **Wooden Skewers:** 12-16 wooden skewers. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
**Equipment:**
* Large bowl
* Whisk
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Grater
* Garlic press (optional)
* Grill or grill pan
**Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the Marinade**
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, *Ras el Hanout*, turmeric, paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Ensure that all the spices are well combined and there are no clumps.
**Step 2: Marinate the Chicken**
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the spice mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably several hours. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
**Step 3: Prepare the Skewers**
While the chicken is marinating, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent them from burning on the grill. Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer.
**Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers**
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the skewers in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake them in the oven. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot. These Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers are delicious served with couscous, rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a yogurt-based dipping sauce. They also make a great addition to a mezze platter.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chicken Type:** While chicken breasts and thighs are both excellent choices, consider using a mix for added flavor and texture. Thighs will provide a richer, juicier experience, while breasts offer a leaner option.
* **Vegetable Skewers:** To make a complete meal on skewers, add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers along with the chicken. Marinate the vegetables in the same marinade as the chicken for added flavor.
* **Spicy Kick:** For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also use a spicier *Ras el Hanout* blend.
* **Sweetness:** For a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade.
* **Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs in the marinade, such as parsley, mint, or thyme.
* **Citrus:** Use orange juice or lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrusy flavor.
* **Yogurt Marinade:** Add a few tablespoons of plain yogurt to the marinade for an even more tender and flavorful chicken.
* **Grilled Fruit:** Add chunks of pineapple or peaches to the skewers for a sweet and savory combination.
* **Serving Suggestions:** Serve the skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce, hummus, or baba ghanoush for dipping.
* **Make Ahead:** The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance. Thread the chicken onto the skewers just before grilling.
* **Storage:** Leftover skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
**Serving Suggestions in Detail:**
Let’s delve deeper into some specific serving suggestions to elevate your Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers experience:
1. **Couscous with Toasted Almonds and Dried Apricots:** This is a classic Moroccan pairing. The fluffy couscous provides a neutral base that complements the bold flavors of the chicken. Toasted almonds add a delightful crunch, while dried apricots offer a touch of sweetness that balances the savory spices.
* **Preparation:** Prepare couscous according to package directions. While the couscous is cooking, toast slivered almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown. Roughly chop dried apricots. Once the couscous is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the toasted almonds and dried apricots. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
2. **Moroccan Salad with Oranges, Olives, and Mint:** This refreshing salad is a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the chicken. The combination of sweet oranges, salty olives, and fragrant mint creates a vibrant and flavorful dish that awakens the palate.
* **Preparation:** Peel and segment oranges, removing any seeds. Combine the orange segments with pitted Kalamata olives, chopped fresh mint, and thinly sliced red onion. Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess.
3. **Grilled Vegetables with Harissa Yogurt Dip:** Grilling vegetables alongside the chicken skewers adds another layer of flavor and texture to the meal. The harissa yogurt dip provides a cool and creamy contrast to the grilled vegetables and spicy chicken.
* **Preparation:** Choose your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the vegetables until they are tender and slightly charred. For the harissa yogurt dip, combine plain Greek yogurt with a spoonful of harissa paste (a spicy chili paste from North Africa), a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the amount of harissa to your desired level of spice.
4. **Quinoa with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Chickpeas:** This nutritious and satisfying side dish is packed with protein and fiber. The roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas add a touch of sweetness and nuttiness that complements the Moroccan spices.
* **Preparation:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drain and rinse canned chickpeas. Spread the sweet potatoes and chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned. Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas. You can also add some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
5. **Pita Bread and Hummus:** This is a simple and classic pairing that’s perfect for a casual meal. Warm pita bread and creamy hummus provide a satisfying base for the flavorful chicken skewers.
* **Preparation:** Warm pita bread in a toaster oven or microwave. Serve with your favorite hummus, either store-bought or homemade. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika to the hummus for extra flavor.
6. **Mezze Platter:** Create a Moroccan-inspired mezze platter by serving the chicken skewers alongside other small dishes, such as olives, feta cheese, stuffed grape leaves, baba ghanoush, and labneh (a strained yogurt cheese). This is a great way to sample a variety of flavors and textures and create a festive and communal dining experience.
**Conclusion:**
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, fire up the grill or preheat your oven and embark on a culinary adventure to Morocco. You won’t be disappointed!
**Enjoy your Moroccan spiced chicken skewers!**