Craving a delicious and exotic meal that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! These Moroccan chicken drumsticks are bursting with vibrant spices and tender, juicy chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more leisurely weekend meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the bustling souks of Marrakech with this easy and healthy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps ensure the chicken browns beautifully and absorbs the flavors better.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't rush this step; allowing the aromatics to cook slowly releases their full flavor.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), and cinnamon to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This process, known as blooming, enhances the depth of flavor in your dish.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken drumsticks to the pot and brown them on all sides. This step takes about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken skin is crispy and golden. Avoid overcrowding the pot; you may need to brown the chicken in batches for best results.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the chicken broth, add the chopped cilantro and dried apricots. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Moroccan chicken drumsticks hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired. These are delicious on their own, or served with couscous, rice, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have dried apricots, you can substitute with other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add a handful of olives for a briny twist.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a more substantial meal.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a similar result.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Moroccan chicken drumsticks recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to your usual weeknight dinners. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor without sacrificing ease. Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe for flavorful chicken drumsticks! This recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas and best recipes for healthy meals. It's an effortless way to enjoy a taste of Morocco right in your own kitchen.