Ras el hanout, the “king of spices,” beckons with its intoxicating blend of warmth and depth. This North African treasure trove boasts over 20 ingredients, ranging from fiery chiles to sweet cinnamon, promising an explosion of flavor in every bite. And what better way to experience its magic than through juicy, succulent chicken?

Our Ras el Hanout Chicken recipe is a symphony of exotic aromas and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion, or for impressing guests with your culinary prowess. So, gather your ingredients, clear your calendar for the intoxicating scent of spices, and prepare to embark on a flavor journey you won’t soon forget!

Ingredients:

• 1 kg bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a combination)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ras el hanout spice blend
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, ras el hanout, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture generously all over the chicken pieces, ensuring even coating.

3. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.

4. Add the garlic and onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

5. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cover and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

 

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Ras el Hanout Chicken FAQs: Your Flavor Odyssey Awaits!

Ras el hanout chicken, a dish infused with the magic of Morocco’s “king of spices,” is an aromatic adventure for your taste buds. But before you embark on this culinary journey, here are some frequently asked questions to ensure a smooth and delicious experience:

What is ras el hanout?

Ras el hanout, meaning “head of the shop” in Arabic, is a complex spice blend originating from Morocco. Its exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, varying from vendor to vendor and boasting up to 20 or more individual spices. Common ingredients include cumin, coriander, chili peppers, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and rose petals, creating a warm, sweet, and slightly floral aroma.

What cuts of chicken are best for this recipe?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs, drumsticks, or a combination are ideal. They hold up well to marinating and baking, resulting in juicy meat and crispy skin. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the ras el hanout mixture for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, intensifies the flavor and ensures it penetrates deep into the meat. This is a great option for a flavorful weekend meal or to prep ahead for a busy weeknight.

What can I substitute for ras el hanout?

While there’s no perfect substitute for this unique blend, you can try recreating its essence with a combination of spices you have on hand. Experiment with cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, adjusting the amounts to your taste.

What can I serve with ras el hanout chicken?

Couscous, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions are classic pairings that soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a refreshing Moroccan salad or flatbreads like naan or pita for a satisfying meal.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Start with the amount of ras el hanout in the recipe and taste as you go. If you prefer a milder dish, use less of the spice blend or omit the smoked paprika. For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes before baking.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply brown the chicken and saute the onions and garlic as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover ras el hanout chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for longer storage, defrosting it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

With these FAQs as your guide, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with the intoxicating flavors of ras el hanout chicken. So gather your spices, preheat your oven, and savor the journey!

Tips:

• For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking.
• Serve this flavorful dish with couscous, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Adjust the level of spice to your preference. Remember, ras el hanout can be quite potent!
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.