Introduction
Discover the rich, aromatic flavors of Morocco with this comforting One Pot Moroccan Chicken Stew. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with a vibrant array of vegetables and fragrant spices. It’s not only delicious but also effortless to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, cooking until browned on all sides.
- Stir in the carrot, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to replace chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option.
- For additional flavor, consider adding a touch of harissa or a pinch of saffron.
- This stew pairs beautifully with couscous or warm crusty bread.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights stovetop cooking techniques that allow the rich flavors to meld beautifully. Sautéing the aromatics first enhances the overall depth of the stew, while simmering allows the chicken to absorb the spices fully.
FAQ
- Can I make this stew in advance? Yes, it can be made a day ahead and tastes even better the next day.
- Can I substitute the chickpeas? Yes, white beans or lentils can be good alternatives.
- Is this stew freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This One Pot Moroccan Chicken Stew is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that warms the heart and soul. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners. Enjoy each comforting spoonful!