Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats – A Flavorful Delight

Growing up, I spent my summers in Marrakech with my grandparents, and the smell of Moroccan spices would fill the air, signaling the start of a delicious feast. One of my favorite dishes was always the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats – delicate phyllo dough wrapped around a fragrant, juicy chicken filling. The combination of the warm spices, tender chicken, and flaky pastry was like a party in my mouth. To this day, whenever I make this recipe, it transports me back to those sun-drenched days in Morocco, surrounded by the laughter of family and the vibrant energy of the souk.

Why This Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

The secret to these Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats lies in the blend of spices and the delicate phyllo dough. The Moroccan spice blend, which includes cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika, infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that is both warm and aromatic. The phyllo dough provides a light and flaky texture that perfectly complements the savory filling. Plus, with a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of 45 minutes, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: This lean protein is the star of the show, providing a juicy and tender filling for the phyllo dough.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: The olive oil helps to sauté the chicken and bring out the flavors of the Moroccan spice blend.
• 2 teaspoons Moroccan spice blend (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika): This fragrant blend of warm spices is what gives the chicken its distinctive Moroccan flair.
• 1 teaspoon salt: A touch of salt helps to balance the flavors and bring out the natural sweetness of the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little bit of black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
• 12 sheets phyllo dough, thawed: The delicate, flaky phyllo dough wraps around the chicken filling to create a truly decadent pastry.
• 3 tablespoons melted butter: The butter helps to crisp up the phyllo dough and gives it a rich, golden hue.

Step-by-Step Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Instructions

Preparing Your Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of 45 minutes, this Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats recipe is a breeze to make. You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan, a cutting board, a sharp knife, a pastry brush, and a baking sheet.

1- Begin by dicing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. This will help the chicken cook quickly and evenly.
2- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken and sprinkle with the Moroccan spice blend, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the chicken, stirring frequently, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
3- Remove the cooked chicken from the heat and let it cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, use a fork to shred or roughly chop the chicken into smaller pieces.
4- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5- Working with one sheet of phyllo dough at a time (keeping the rest covered to prevent them from drying out), brush the sheet lightly with the melted butter. Place a heaping tablespoon of the chicken filling near the bottom of the sheet, then fold the dough over the filling, creating a triangle shape. Continue folding the dough over itself in a triangle pattern until you reach the end of the sheet.
6- Place the folded briouats seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining phyllo dough and chicken filling, spacing the briouats evenly on the baking sheet.

Pro Tips for Success

1- Be sure to thaw the phyllo dough completely before using it. This will make it easier to work with and prevent it from tearing.
2- Work quickly when assembling the briouats to prevent the phyllo dough from drying out. Keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel.
3- For a crisper texture, brush the tops of the briouats with a little extra melted butter before baking.
4- Adjust the baking time as needed, keeping an eye on the briouats to ensure they don’t over-brown.

Serving and Storing Your Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

Perfect Pairings for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

These Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are the perfect appetizer or main dish, serving up to 12 guests. For a complete meal, try serving them with a refreshing Mediterranean salad, some creamy hummus, and a glass of crisp white wine. The warm, aromatic spices of the briouats also pair beautifully with a side of fragrant basmati rice or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the briouats and freeze them before baking. Place the unbaked briouats on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen briouats on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

Creative Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Variations

For a seasonal twist, try substituting the chicken with diced butternut squash or roasted sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as ground lamb or spinach and feta cheese.

Another fun variation is to make mini briouats by using wonton wrappers instead of phyllo dough. These bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining.

Making Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Diet-Friendly

To make these Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats gluten-free, simply substitute the phyllo dough with gluten-free wrappers or sheets of puff pastry. For a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the chicken with diced tofu or a plant-based meat alternative.

If you’re watching your carb intake, you can serve the Moroccan Spiced Chicken filling in lettuce cups or on a bed of cauliflower rice instead of the traditional phyllo dough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of spice blend instead of the Moroccan spice blend?
A: While the Moroccan spice blend is essential to the authentic flavor of this dish, you can experiment with other warm, aromatic spice blends, such as garam masala or a Mediterranean herb blend.

Q: How long do the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats take to prepare?
A: This recipe has a prep time of 15 minutes and a total time of 45 minutes, so it’s a quick and easy dish to prepare.

Q: Can I make the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the briouats and freeze them before baking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats recipe yields 12 servings, making it perfect for a party or a large family gathering.

Q: What should I do if the phyllo dough starts to tear while I’m assembling the briouats?
A: If the phyllo dough tears, simply use a small amount of the melted butter to “glue” the torn pieces back together. The butter will help the dough stick and prevent further tearing.

Print

Conclusion

These Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are a true delight for the senses – the fragrant spices, the tender chicken, and the flaky phyllo dough come together in a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. Whether you’re transporting your taste buds to the bustling souks of Marrakech or simply craving a delicious and impressive appetizer or main dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So gather your ingredients, put on some Moroccan music, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will have your friends and family begging for more. Don’t forget to share your experience and tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see your Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats masterpieces!