Zesty Moroccan Chicken Marinade with Fluffy Couscous

Moroccan Chicken Marinade: A Flavorful Delight for Every Occasion

Welcome to “Love With Recipes,” where we transform everyday ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences! Today’s recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s as versatile as it is delicious: the Moroccan Chicken Marinade. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping a weeknight meal, or simply craving a taste of North Africa, this marinade is your go-to. It’s perfect for chicken, but feel free to use it with beef, lamb, or fish. With its harmonious blend of spices, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience effortlessly.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 850 grams of chicken breasts, sliced into your preferred size (larger pieces will take longer to cook)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Couscous:

• 500 grams instant couscous
• 40 grams butter
• 1/4 cup lemon rind, finely grated
• 1 cup sultanas (or raisins)
• 1/4 cup almonds, chopped (optional, for added crunch)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the ground cumin, ground cinnamon, paprika, ground coriander, ground cloves, ground ginger, and salt. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly until all the spices are well incorporated into a fragrant paste.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into pieces of your desired size. Remember, larger pieces will require a longer cooking time. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the prepared spice mixture. For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 5 minutes, though marinating overnight will deepen the flavors.

3. Cook the Chicken: After marinating, cook the chicken by either frying it in a hot skillet or grilling it on the BBQ. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is nicely charred on the outside.

4. Prepare the Couscous: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the instant couscous according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the couscous with a fork to ensure it’s light and airy. Stir in the butter until melted and evenly distributed.

5. Add Finishing Touches: Fold in the sultanas and lemon rind into the couscous. For an extra touch of texture and flavor, you can also mix in some chopped almonds if desired.

6. Serve: Plate the cooked chicken on a bed of the flavorful couscous. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be enhanced with a handful of chickpeas for added protein and texture.

Tips for Success:

• Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. If you’re short on time, even a brief 5-minute marinate will still be delicious.
• Cooking Method: Both frying and grilling bring out different flavors in the marinade. Choose the method that best suits your taste or available equipment.
• Couscous Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients to the couscous, such as roasted vegetables or fresh herbs, to customize the dish to your liking.

Enjoy this Moroccan Chicken Marinade and let it transport your taste buds to a world of vibrant, exotic flavors. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe promises to impress and delight. Happy cooking from “Love With Recipes!” 🍗🌟🍋