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Moroccan Spiced Grilled Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 169 reviews

This Moroccan-Spiced Grilled Chicken Breasts recipe features tender chicken breasts marinated in a fragrant blend of traditional Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, and a hint of cayenne for heat. Grilled to perfection, the chicken boasts a smoky char and vibrant flavors, perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, salt, and lemon juice until well combined, creating a fragrant Moroccan-inspired marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the meat; overnight marination is recommended for enhanced flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: About 10 minutes before cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear and proper cooking temperature.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) indicating the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the grilled chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for moist and tender results. Serve warm with your preferred side dishes.

Notes

  • For more heat, increase cayenne pepper according to taste or omit entirely for a milder dish.
  • Marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavors and tenderness of the chicken.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
  • Serve with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete Moroccan-inspired meal.
  • If a grill is unavailable, the chicken can be cooked on a grill pan or broiled under a broiler, adjusting cooking time accordingly.