SBD-Friendly Moroccan-Inspired Baked Chicken
Craving the rich, aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine without all the extra fat? This delightful recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a savory blend of spices and chickpeas, creating a dish that is both satisfying and health-conscious. Perfectly simple, yet deliciously flavorful, it’s a fantastic option for those following the South Beach Diet or anyone looking for a wholesome, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/8 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, sliced
- 12 black olives, sliced
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature for baking the chicken to perfection. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray (like Pam) to prevent the chicken from sticking. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer within the dish. -
Season the Chicken:
Drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Follow with a drizzle of olive oil to add moisture and flavor. Sprinkle the ground coriander, cinnamon, and cumin evenly over the chicken, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors into the meat. -
Add Chickpeas:
Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove any excess salt and preservatives. Scatter the chickpeas over the seasoned chicken, spreading them out to ensure an even distribution. -
Top with Vegetables:
Place the sliced onions and black olives on top of the chicken and chickpeas. Add a few grinds of black pepper to taste, which will enhance the dish’s overall flavor. -
Bake the Chicken:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked. -
Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. For a complete meal, serve the chicken with a side of wild rice, a small whole wheat pita, and a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 404.4
- Fat: 12.4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.8g
- Cholesterol: 68.4mg
- Sodium: 503.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 39.2g
- Fiber: 7.5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 34.9g
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron or a dash of paprika.
- If you prefer a bit more spice, feel free to include a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh cilantro.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this dish perfect for meal prepping or quick lunches.
Enjoy this Moroccan-inspired dish that’s both easy to prepare and a delight to the taste buds! Perfect for anyone following the South Beach Diet or simply looking to enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal. 🌟🍽️
