Ingredients
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (any color)
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preparing the Flavorful Moroccan Chicken & Rice Bowl involves several straightforward steps:
1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare Rice: Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
5. Stir in Veggies: In the same skillet, add chopped bell peppers and sliced carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes.
6. Add Chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas, mixing them with the vegetables for 2 minutes.
7. Combine Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil.
8. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the broth.
9. Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the bowl and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g