Why Make This Recipe
Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers are a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The combination of spices creates a vibrant flavor that transports you to Morocco. They are easy to prepare and cook quickly on the grill. Plus, skewers make for easy serving and are perfect for outdoor meals.
How to Make Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (Cut into even cubes for uniform cooking.)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (Enhances flavor and keeps chicken moist.)
- 4 cloves minced garlic (Adds robust flavor.)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin (Essential for Moroccan flavor.)
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander (Introduces a fresh, citrusy note.)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (Lends smoky depth.)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Enhances sweetness.)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (Crucial for flavor enhancement.)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (Provides gentle heat.)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (Tenderizes chicken and adds brightness.)
- 1 set metal or wooden skewers (Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling.)
Directions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Ensure that the chicken breast is cut into uniform, bite-sized cubes, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the spice mixture. Whisk everything together until you have a cohesive marinade.
- Place the cubed chicken into the bowl, ensuring that each piece is generously coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour or ideally overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is clean and well-oiled.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them every few minutes to achieve even grilling.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
How to Serve Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers
Serve these skewers hot from the grill alongside a fresh salad, couscous, or warm pita bread. Add a side of yogurt sauce or a spicy harissa for dipping to enhance the flavors even more.
How to Store Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers
If you have leftover skewers, let them cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or on the grill until warmed through.
Tips to Make Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers
- Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Marinating the chicken overnight provides the best flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Variation
Feel free to add vegetables to the skewers! Bell peppers, zucchini, and onion can complement the chicken nicely. Just make sure to cut them into similar size pieces for even cooking.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer.
2. Are these skewers suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Skewers can be grilled when ready to serve.
3. What can I serve with Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair well with sides like couscous, tabbouleh, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with flatbreads for a more filling meal.
Simple Moroccan Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Poultry
Description
Delicious Moroccan-inspired chicken skewers that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into cubes)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 set metal or wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breast into uniform, bite-sized cubes, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the spice mixture and whisk until cohesive.
- Coat the cubed chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Remove and let rest for a few minutes before serving garnished with herbs.
Notes
Marinating the chicken overnight ensures maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Moroccan