Introduction to Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious that also impresses the family. That’s where Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats come in! These delightful pastries are not only packed with flavor but are also surprisingly easy to make. Imagine crispy, golden phyllo dough enveloping a savory chicken filling, perfect for a quick snack or a fancy appetizer. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating your loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
These Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are a game-changer for busy days. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy family night. The combination of spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile! Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even a light meal. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground chicken: This is the star of the show! It’s lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
- Ground cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Moroccan cuisine.
- Ground coriander: With its citrusy notes, coriander brightens up the filling.
- Ground cinnamon: A hint of cinnamon adds warmth and a touch of sweetness.
- Paprika: This spice gives a lovely color and a mild smokiness to the briouats.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste preference.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color to the filling.
- Phyllo dough: The crispy outer layer that makes these briouats irresistible. You can find it in the freezer section of most grocery stores.
- Melted butter: Brushing the phyllo with butter gives it that golden, flaky texture we all love.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding some chopped nuts for crunch or a dash of cayenne for heat. You can find the exact quantities of these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial; it builds the flavor base for your filling!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up any clumps so it cooks evenly. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 3: Add the Spices
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen will smell like a Moroccan bazaar!
Step 4: Cool the Mixture
Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken mixture cool for a few minutes. This step is important because you don’t want to burn your fingers when assembling the briouats. Plus, it helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the Phyllo Dough
While the mixture cools, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now, take out the phyllo dough. Lay a sheet on a clean surface and brush it lightly with melted butter. This will give your briouats that golden, flaky texture we all love. Don’t be shy with the butter!
Step 6: Assemble the Briouats
At one end of the phyllo sheet, place a spoonful of the chicken mixture. Fold the dough over to form a triangle, covering the filling. Keep folding the triangle along the length of the dough until you reach the end. Seal the edges with a bit of melted butter. Repeat this process until all the filling is used up.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled briouats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with more melted butter for that extra crunch. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Your Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are now ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
- Keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the flavors develop and makes assembly easier.
- Experiment with spices! Adjust the heat level by adding cayenne or chili powder.
- For a fun twist, try adding some crumbled feta cheese to the chicken mixture.
- Make a double batch and freeze some for a quick snack later!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any frying pan will do.
- Pastry brush: Use this for buttering the phyllo; a clean paintbrush can work in a pinch!
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is ideal.
- Mixing bowl: Any bowl will suffice for combining your filling ingredients.
Variations of Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese for a delicious meat-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for those who love a bit of heat.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped almonds or pistachios into the filling for added crunch and flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro to give your briouats a fresh twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free phyllo dough or try wrapping the filling in rice paper for a lighter alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip for a cool contrast.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Offer a selection of olives and hummus for a Mediterranean flair.
- For drinks, consider serving with mint tea or a light white wine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color on your serving platter.
FAQs about Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
Can I make Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the briouats and freeze them before baking. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats?
These delightful pastries pair wonderfully with a side of yogurt or a zesty dipping sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or some olives for a complete meal.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even lamb for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
How do I store leftover briouats?
Store any leftover Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Are Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats gluten-free?
They can be! Just use gluten-free phyllo dough or try wrapping the filling in rice paper for a gluten-free alternative. Enjoy the flavors without the gluten!
Final Thoughts
Making Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection. The delightful crunch of the phyllo dough, combined with the aromatic filling, brings a taste of Morocco right into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them on a quiet evening, these briouats are sure to impress. I love how they can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect solution for busy days. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors, and let these little pastries bring happiness to your table!
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Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Will Delight Your Taste Buds!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 20 briouats 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are delicious pastries filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced chicken, wrapped in crispy phyllo dough, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 package phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat some oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
- Add the ground chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in the spices, salt, pepper, and parsley, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough and brush with melted butter.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture at one end and fold the dough over to form a triangle.
- Continue folding the triangle along the length of the dough until you reach the end.
- Place the briouats on a baking sheet and brush the tops with more melted butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve with a side of yogurt or dipping sauce.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 briouat
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg