Savory Moroccan Chicken Msmen for Cozy Dinner Night

Moroccan Chicken Msmen has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on cozy dinner nights. This traditional Moroccan dish features flaky flatbread filled with spiced chicken, and it never fails to impress. With its aromatic blend of spices and the satisfying texture of homemade bread, Moroccan Chicken Msmen is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Chicken Msmen

This Moroccan Chicken Msmen is not just delicious; it’s a culinary journey to Morocco with every bite. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

• It combines the delightful texture of flatbread with spiced chicken filling, creating a unique meal.
• Easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Packed with protein, thanks to the chicken, making it a fulfilling dish for dinner.
• The spices used in the filling provide a burst of flavor, making each bite memorable.
• Versatile enough to serve on special occasions or as a comforting weeknight meal.
• It’s gluten-free if you use a gluten-free flour blend, accommodating various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken Msmen

Gather these items:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour blend if desired)
• 1/2 cup semolina (use extra all-purpose flour if needed)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water (ensure it’s warm, not hot)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (can be substituted with melted butter or neutral oil)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 pound chicken thighs (can substitute with chicken breast)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for brushing)

How to Make Moroccan Chicken Msmen Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt. Gradually stir in warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add diced chicken thighs along with cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is browned.
3. Step 3: Stir in freshly chopped cilantro and parsley just before removing from heat.
4. Step 4: After the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 8 inches in diameter. Brush lightly with melted butter, then fold the edges inward to create layers, shaping into a square or rectangle. Flatten gently with a rolling pin.
5. Step 5: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Place each shaped dough into the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
6. Step 6: Once cooked, remove flatbreads from skillet and keep warm. Place a generous amount of the spiced chicken filling in the center of each Msmen. Fold over filling or roll up tightly. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Moroccan Chicken Msmen

Keep these in mind:

• Use warm water to ensure the dough is pliable and easy to work with.
• If you’re short on time, use store-bought flatbread for a quicker version.
• Experiment with different spices in the chicken filling for a unique flavor profile.
• Ensure the skillet is properly heated before placing the flatbreads to achieve a golden-brown finish.

Best Ways to Serve Moroccan Chicken Msmen

Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a dollop of yogurt on top for creaminess.
• Pair with a side of harissa for an extra kick.

How to Store and Reheat Moroccan Chicken Msmen

To store, wrap any leftover Msmen in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moroccan Chicken Msmen

What is Chicken Msmen?

Chicken Msmen is a Moroccan-style flatbread filled with spiced chicken. It’s a popular dish for its delightful texture and flavor, making it a favorite for dinners.

Can I make Moroccan Chicken Msmen ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble when ready to cook for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Moroccan Chicken Msmen?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your dough is not too thick and cook the flatbreads on medium heat. This prevents burning while ensuring they’re fully cooked.

Variations of Moroccan Chicken Msmen You Can Try

Here are a few variations to consider:

• Swap chicken for lamb or beef for a different protein option.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a healthier twist.
• Try different spices such as coriander or turmeric for unique flavor profiles.

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Mediterranean Chickpea Salad.

For more information on the health benefits of spices, visit this article on the health benefits of spices.

Savory Moroccan Chicken Msmen for Cozy Dinner Night

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Savory Moroccan Chicken Msmen for a Cozy Dinner Night

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Moroccan
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour blend if desired)
• 1/2 cup semolina (use extra all-purpose flour if needed)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water (ensure it’s warm, not hot)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (can be substituted with melted butter or neutral oil)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 pound chicken thighs (can substitute with chicken breast)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for brushing)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt. Gradually stir in warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add diced chicken thighs along with cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is browned.
3. Stir in freshly chopped cilantro and parsley just before removing from heat.
4. After the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each ball into a thin circle, about 8 inches in diameter. Brush lightly with melted butter, then fold the edges inward to create layers, shaping into a square or rectangle. Flatten gently with a rolling pin.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Place each shaped dough into the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
6. Once cooked, remove flatbreads from skillet and keep warm. Place a generous amount of the spiced chicken filling in the center of each Msmen. Fold over filling or roll up tightly. Serve hot.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 Msmen
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg