This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots recipe brings together tender, spiced chicken with the sweet, caramelized flavor of apricots. The combination of Moroccan spices, pomegranate molasses, and fresh apricots makes for a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to prepare. Whether you grill or roast the chicken, this no-bake dish is perfect for a summer meal, paired with couscous or quinoa and a fresh salad.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, spatchcocked

• 2 tbsp all-purpose Moroccan spice mix (divided, reserving ¼ tsp for apricots)

• 1 tsp salt

• ¾ tsp pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)

• 1 clove garlic (minced or pressed)

• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses

For the apricots:

• 6 apricots

• 1 shallot (peeled and coarsely chopped)

• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)

• 1 ½ tbsp honey

• 1 tsp pomegranate molasses

• ¼ tsp reserved Moroccan seasoning

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Mix the Moroccan spices, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, pomegranate molasses, and garlic in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken, both inside and out. Place the chicken in a large food bag, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better flavor).

2. Grill or roast the chicken: Preheat the grill or heat the oven to 450°F. Grill or roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes on each side until the chicken is crisp and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let the chicken rest while you prepare the apricots.

3. Prepare the apricots: Place the apricots and shallot in a small roasting tin. Whisk together lemon juice and zest, honey, pomegranate molasses, and the reserved Moroccan seasoning. Pour the mixture over the apricots and roast or grill for 10-15 minutes until the apricots are soft and starting to caramelize.

4. Serve: Serve the grilled chicken with any cooking juices and the caramelized apricots with the glaze on top.

Nutrients (approximate per serving)

• Calories: Varies depending on portion size, but approximately 400-500 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Fat: 25g

Why Moroccan Spices?

Moroccan cuisine is famous for its use of spices, often in combinations that are both aromatic and complex. The Moroccan spice mix used in this recipe brings together a variety of spices that are commonly found in Moroccan cooking, including cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves. These spices create a deep, warm flavor profile that infuses the chicken with a unique and exotic taste. When combined with the fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and pomegranate molasses, the Moroccan spices form a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that elevate the chicken to new heights.

The Key Ingredient: Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a distinct tangy sweetness that complements the spices and brings depth to the dish. Made by reducing pomegranate juice with sugar and lemon juice, this syrup-like ingredient has a unique flavor that’s both tart and sweet, with an underlying richness. It’s commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisines to enhance savory dishes and add a glossy finish to sauces and marinades. In this recipe, the pomegranate molasses is used both as a marinade for the chicken and as a glaze for the apricots, tying the entire dish together with its deep, fruity flavor.

Spatchcocking the Chicken for Even Cooking

Spatchcocking the chicken, or removing the backbone and flattening it out, is a technique that ensures the chicken cooks more evenly and faster. This method helps the chicken cook through while allowing the skin to get nice and crispy, giving you a tender, juicy bird with a beautifully golden exterior. Spatchcocking is also a great technique for grilling, as it allows the heat to circulate more evenly around the chicken, ensuring that it cooks quickly and evenly. Whether grilling or roasting, spatchcocking the chicken will help you achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat.

The Sweet and Savory Apricot Topping

The apricot topping is what really makes this dish special. Roasting or grilling the apricots with shallots, honey, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses creates a luscious, caramelized glaze that pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken. The apricots, once cooked, become soft and slightly jammy, with a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken. The glaze adds a slight tang, thanks to the pomegranate molasses and lemon juice, which enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit. The combination of the caramelized apricots and the Moroccan-spiced chicken creates a balanced and harmonious dish that is both complex and comforting.

Grilling or Roasting: How to Choose?

One of the great things about this recipe is that it’s versatile. Whether you prefer grilling or roasting, both methods will yield delicious results. If you’re grilling, the smoky flavor that develops from the charred skin adds another layer of depth to the dish. Grilling also provides that crispy, charred exterior that is so irresistible. If you choose to roast the chicken, you can achieve the same result by using high heat in the oven, which allows the chicken to crisp up and cook evenly. The apricots can be roasted or grilled as well, depending on your preference, but both methods work beautifully to caramelize the fruit and create a rich glaze.

A Simple Yet Flavorful Process

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots may sound like a complex dish, but the process is relatively simple. The first step is preparing the chicken with a flavorful Moroccan spice rub made of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and the Moroccan spice mix. Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour (or overnight for maximum flavor) allows the spices to infuse the meat, making it extra tasty. Once the chicken is ready, it’s either grilled or roasted until golden and cooked through. Meanwhile, the apricots and shallots are cooked with a combination of lemon juice, honey, and pomegranate molasses, resulting in a sweet, tangy topping. The final step is to serve the chicken with the caramelized apricots, making for a dish that is both visually stunning and absolutely delicious.

Pairing Suggestions for Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Couscous is a natural pairing, as its light, fluffy texture complements the savory chicken and sweet apricot topping. Alternatively, quinoa offers a hearty and nutty flavor that works well with the Moroccan spices. A fresh salad with greens, such as arugula or spinach, and a light lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken, providing a refreshing contrast. You could also serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini, to enhance the overall Mediterranean flavor profile of the meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots is a well-balanced dish that offers a healthy serving of protein from the chicken, as well as vitamins and fiber from the apricots. The chicken provides about 35 grams of protein per serving, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The apricots contribute antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which help support the immune system, as well as fiber for digestive health. The pomegranate molasses and honey offer a touch of natural sweetness, while the olive oil in the marinade provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following a low-carb or Mediterranean-style diet.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots is a perfect example of how bold spices, sweet fruits, and simple ingredients can come together to create an extraordinary dish. Whether you’re a fan of Moroccan cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe offers a rich, flavorful experience that is sure to impress. The combination of spices, pomegranate molasses, and apricots creates a balanced and complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and guests alike.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Apricots is a flavorful, vibrant dish that brings together the warmth of Moroccan spices, the sweetness of apricots, and the richness of pomegranate molasses. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with complex flavors, making it perfect for a summer meal or special occasion. The grilled or roasted chicken pairs perfectly with the caramelized apricots, creating a dish that’s both savory and sweet, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether served with couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for delicious and satisfying meals.