Savory Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herb Yogurt Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of Moroccan cuisine with this Savory Moroccan Grilled Chicken. Marinated in a fragrant blend of yogurt, fresh herbs, and warm spices, this dish offers a perfect balance of zest and tenderness. The yogurt not only adds a creamy texture but also tenderizes the chicken, making each bite juicy and packed with flavor. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, you'll want to share this delicious recipe with family and friends. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or warm pita for a complete meal!
N/A
Servings
144
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Plain yogurt
1/2 cup (none)
Fresh cilantro
1/2 cup (chopped)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Garlic
2 cloves (minced)
Paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Fresh ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 1/2 lbs (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the plain yogurt, chopped cilantro (or ground coriander), olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.
2
Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated on all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 6 to 10 hours to infuse the flavors.
3
When ready to grill, preheat your grill to high heat if using a gas grill, or prepare charcoal for direct grilling. If you prefer indoor cooking, heat a cast-iron grill pan on medium-high heat on the stove.
4
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken moist and tender.
5
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
6g
Carbs
23g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Moroccan Grilled Chicken?
Savory Moroccan Grilled Chicken is a dish featuring chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of yogurt, fresh herbs like cilantro, and warm Moroccan spices such as cumin and paprika.
What ingredients are in the Moroccan chicken marinade?
The marinade consists of plain yogurt, fresh cilantro, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best infusion of flavor and tenderization, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 6 to 10 hours.
Why is yogurt used in the marinade?
Yogurt acts as a tenderizer for the chicken and adds a creamy texture that helps the spices adhere to the meat.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 F (75 C) to be considered safe and fully cooked.
Can I cook this dish indoors?
Yes, you can use a cast-iron grill pan on medium-high heat on your stove if an outdoor grill is not available.
What side dishes go well with Moroccan Grilled Chicken?
It is delicious when served alongside a fresh garden salad, warm pita bread, or a side of fluffy couscous.
How many calories are in a serving of this chicken?
There are approximately 144 calories per serving.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, it provides 23g of protein per serving, making it a great high-protein meal option.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs, though you may need to adjust the grilling time slightly.
What can I use if I do not have fresh cilantro?
You can substitute ground coriander if fresh cilantro is unavailable.
How long does the chicken need to grill on each side?
Grill the chicken breasts for approximately 5 to 7 minutes on each side.
What kind of oil is best for the marinade?
Olive oil is recommended for this recipe to provide the best flavor and healthy fats.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer barbecue?
Absolutely, the grilled nature and zest of the marinade make it ideal for outdoor summer cooking.
Should I let the chicken rest after grilling?
Yes, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy and tender.
How much fat is in this dish?
This recipe contains 4g of fat per serving.
Is this a Mediterranean-style recipe?
Yes, it incorporates many Mediterranean and North African elements like olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
How much chicken do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts.
Is this Moroccan chicken spicy?
It is savory and flavorful with warm spices like cumin, but it is not inherently 'hot' spicy.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used and will result in a thicker marinade.
How many garlic cloves are required?
The recipe requires 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Does the yogurt help prevent the chicken from drying out?
Yes, the yogurt marinade helps seal in moisture, keeping the meat juicy even on high heat.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can mix the marinade ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to use.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 6g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
While designed for chicken, this savory herb-yogurt marinade also works well with lamb or turkey.
What is the prep level for this recipe?
It is considered an easy cooking recipe with a focus on simple preparation and bold flavors.
How much paprika is used?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 teaspoons of paprika.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those on a gluten-free diet.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger family or for meal prep.
What is the best way to garnish the dish?
Garnish with additional fresh cilantro before serving to enhance the herbal aroma and presentation.