Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken recipe. It effortlessly brings together a mix of spices that transport me straight to the vibrant streets of Morocco.
What I adore most is how the slow cooker does all the work for me, allowing the chicken to soak up all those aromatic flavors without much fuss. The tender meat practically falls off the bone, and the combination of sweet dates and crunchy almonds adds a delightful twist.
Plus, it’s perfect for busy days; I can set it and forget it! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen, too.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken
When it comes to making an unforgettable meal, the ingredients can make all the difference, and the Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken recipe is no exception. This dish brings together a unique blend of spices, tender chicken, and sweet elements that create an explosion of flavor. You might be wondering what exactly you need to whip up this culinary delight. Well, let’s break it down, shall we?
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons McCormick whole mixed pickling spices
- 1 large onion, cut into thin wedges
- 3 1/2 lbs skinless chicken breasts and/or skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can chicken broth
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup (about 6 ounces) pitted dates, quartered
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
Now, let’s chat about some other considerations regarding these ingredients. First off, don’t stress if you can’t find whole mixed pickling spices; you can whip up a quick substitute with some mustard seeds, coriander, and dill.
And while the recipe calls for skinless chicken, feel free to use bone-in pieces if you like a bit of extra flavor—just be prepared for a slightly longer cooking time. For those of you who might be watching your carbs or gluten, you can easily swap out the flour for a gluten-free alternative or even omit it altogether.
Finally, if you’re not a fan of sweet dates, you can replace them with apricots for a similar texture and sweetness. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
How to Make Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken
Alright, let’s explore how to make this delightful Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken. First things first, grab your 2 tablespoons of McCormick whole mixed pickling spices. You’ll want to place those in the center of a piece of cheesecloth or even a coffee filter if you’re feeling a bit crafty. Tie it up tightly with a string—think of it like preparing a little spice gift for your slow cooker.
Now, onto the veggies. Take that 1 large onion and slice it into thin wedges. Toss those into your 3 1/2 to 4-quart slow cooker like you’re scattering confetti at a party—this is where the magic starts.
Next, let’s bring in the main attraction: 3 1/2 lbs of skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can mix and match, depending on your mood or what you have on hand. Place the chicken right on top of those onions, and then grab a bowl for the flour. Combine 1/4 cup flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken like you’re the fairy godparent of flavor.
Now, it’s time to add that little spice bundle we made earlier. Toss it into the pot along with 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can of chicken broth, 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can of drained diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of quartered pitted dates. Oh, and don’t forget about those 1/2 cup slivered almonds—let’s add a nice crunch.
Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it up and set it to cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours. Honestly, the smell that wafts through your home as it cooks is so good that you might just start pacing like a kid waiting for Christmas morning.
When the time’s up, carefully remove that pickling spice bundle—don’t let it sneak away. It’s time to serve this flavorful dish, and I highly recommend pairing it with some fluffy couscous. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Enjoy your meal, and remember, if you accidentally spill some on your shirt while you’re serving—who hasn’t? Just call it a culinary badge of honor.
Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken Substitutions & Variations
While the traditional Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken recipe is already a flavorful delight, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can explore to make it your own.
For a twist, try using boneless pork or lamb instead of chicken; both add rich flavors. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or lentils work beautifully.
Swap out dates for dried apricots or figs for a different sweetness. You can also experiment with spices; adding cinnamon or cayenne can elevate the dish further.
For a nut-free version, just omit the almonds or replace them with pumpkin seeds. Finally, serve it over quinoa or rice instead of couscous to switch up the base.
Enjoy creating your unique version!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken
Serving Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken can elevate your meal to new heights. I love pairing this dish with fluffy couscous, which absorbs the rich flavors beautifully.
You can also try serving it over a bed of quinoa for a nutty twist. If you’re looking for something green, a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil brings a revitalizing contrast.
Don’t forget about warm pita bread; it’s perfect for scooping up the chicken and sauce. For a heartier touch, roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers complement the dish well.
Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a bright finish. Enjoy experimenting with these sides to find your perfect combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken experience, consider adjusting the spices and ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor. I also love experimenting with different dried fruits; apricots or raisins can add a nice sweetness too. Don’t hesitate to swap slivered almonds for walnuts or pistachios if you have them on hand.
For a thicker sauce, you can thicken the broth with a cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking. Finally, remember to serve it over a fluffy bed of couscous or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your culinary adventure!