Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Moroccan Chicken Phyllo Pie?
It is a traditional-style Moroccan dish featuring tender chicken thighs, crunchy almonds, sweet golden raisins, and fragrant spices like turmeric and cinnamon, all baked inside layers of flaky phyllo pastry.
What cut of chicken should I use for this pie?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking.
What spices are used in the filling?
The filling is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
How many eggs are required for the recipe?
You will need 6 eggs to create the savory custard filling.
What type of nuts are included in the Savory Moroccan Chicken Phyllo Pie?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped salted and roasted almonds.
What kind of raisins should I buy?
This recipe specifically uses 1/3 cup of golden raisins for a touch of sweetness.
How much light sour cream is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of light sour cream to be whisked with the eggs.
How many sheets of phyllo dough are necessary?
You will need a total of 12 sheets of thawed phyllo dough.
What size pan is recommended for this recipe?
A 9-inch springform pan is recommended for building and baking the pie.
How long do I need to sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions for about 5 minutes or until they become crisp-tender.
How do I prepare the chicken in the skillet?
Cook the chicken pieces for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are well-browned.
What should I do if my skillet is too small for the chicken?
If your skillet is small, it is recommended to brown the chicken in batches for even cooking.
How do I layer the bottom crust of the pie?
Spray 8 sheets of phyllo with cooking spray; stack 4 sheets in the pan, then layer the remaining 4 sheets crosswise over the first stack.
How do I prepare the top layer of phyllo?
Spray the final 4 sheets of phyllo with cooking spray, cut them in half, and lay them over the egg and chicken mixture.
How long does the Moroccan Chicken Phyllo Pie take to bake?
Bake the pie for 50 to 55 minutes.
How do I know when the pie is finished baking?
The pie is done when the phyllo pastry appears golden brown and crispy.
Does the pie need to rest after baking?
Yes, allow the pie to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Can I serve this pie at room temperature?
Yes, this pie can be enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature.
What type of oil is used and how is it divided?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of oil: 1 tablespoon for the onions and 1 tablespoon for the chicken.
What fresh herbs are used in the filling?
3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley are mixed into the chicken filling.
How should the almonds be prepared?
The salted and roasted almonds should be coarsely chopped.
Is it necessary to grease the springform pan?
Yes, you should spray the 9-inch springform pan lightly with cooking spray.
What do I do with the phyllo edges hanging over the pan?
Fold any excess phyllo hanging over the sides back over the filling before baking.
When should I add the turmeric to the dish?
Stir in the turmeric after the onions are sautéed and cook for another minute until fragrant.
What is the first step of the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
How do I combine the liquid and solid parts of the filling?
Spoon the chicken mixture into the phyllo crust first, then pour the whisked egg and sour cream mixture over the top.
Is this dish considered a main course?
Yes, it is described as a hearty main course perfect for gatherings.
What makes this pie exotic in flavor?
The combination of savory chicken with sweet raisins, almonds, turmeric, and cinnamon provides its exotic Moroccan flair.
Should the phyllo be frozen when I start?
No, the 12 sheets of phyllo dough should be thawed before you begin preparation.