Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette transforms ordinary chicken into a flavorful dish filled with exotic spices and vibrant ingredients. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is not only quick but also bursting with freshness. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that impresses everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and fresh herbs creates an exciting flavor profile that elevates grilled chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as kebabs or toss it into salads; this dish easily adapts to your dining occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe supports a balanced diet without compromising on taste.
• Fresh Vinaigrette: The homemade herby lemon olive vinaigrette adds brightness and complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the necessary tools ready to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Skewers (if making kebabs)
• Gallon-sized zip-top bag
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky charred flavor while cooking your chicken to perfection.
• Skewers: Useful for easy handling of the chicken pieces while grilling and serving them in an appealing way.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients effectively when preparing the marinade and vinaigrette.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size chunks
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• Kosher salt, to taste

For the Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice + 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, torn
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese

How to Make Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a gallon-sized zip-top bag, combine the chicken, olive oil, yogurt, smoked paprika, cilantro, ground cumin, garlic, ginger, and a large pinch of kosher salt.
2. Seal the bag tightly and massage the marinade into the chicken.
3. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes in the fridge or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Your Grill

1. Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. If using skewers, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Brush the skewered chicken lightly with olive oil.
2. Place on the grill and cook until lightly charred and cooked through, turning occasionally—about 10 to 12 minutes total.

Step 4: Make the Vinaigrette

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, chopped cilantro, torn olives, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of kosher salt.
2. Stir in crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese until well mixed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the grilled chicken skewers.
2. Drizzle generously with herby lemon olive vinaigrette before serving.
3. Enjoy your delicious Moroccan grilled chicken!

This recipe not only offers delightful flavors but also provides an easy pathway to impressing guests or enjoying a quick weeknight dinner!

How to Serve Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

Serving Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Salad

• A light mixed greens salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of the vinaigrette complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Over Couscous

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy couscous. The grains soak up the vinaigrette, adding extra flavor to each bite.

In Pita Bread

• For a quick meal, wrap the grilled chicken in warm pita bread along with fresh vegetables and a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with a selection of roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious plate.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley over the top just before serving to add freshness and visual appeal.

On Skewers as Appetizers

• Serve small portions of the grilled chicken on skewers as appetizers for gatherings. Drizzle with vinaigrette right before serving for an extra flavor boost.

How to Perfect Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

Perfecting this recipe is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your chicken is flavorful and juicy every time.

• Marinate Wisely – Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes but ideally overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs like cilantro and quality olive oil enhance the taste significantly compared to dried or inferior alternatives.
• Preheat Your Grill – Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. This helps achieve that perfect char while keeping the inside moist.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Leave space between chicken pieces on skewers to allow even cooking and proper charring.
• Check Internal Temperature – Cook until an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached for safe consumption without drying out the meat.
• Rest Before Serving – Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute for tender bites.

Best Side Dishes for Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

Pairing side dishes with Moroccan Grilled Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Couscous Salad – A refreshing couscous salad mixed with diced vegetables and herbs offers a light complement to the rich flavors of the chicken.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with spices provides a nutritious base that pairs well with grilled meats.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice brings a vibrant green element to your plate.
4. Mediterranean Rice – Savory rice cooked with olives, tomatoes, and herbs makes a satisfying side that matches Moroccan flavors well.
5. Hummus Platter – A platter featuring hummus alongside pita chips and fresh veggies adds a creamy element that’s perfect for dipping.
6. Tabbouleh Salad – This herbaceous salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, and mint offers bright flavors that enhance the meal’s freshness.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide natural sweetness to balance out savory notes from the chicken.
8. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overshadowing the star of your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken is essential for adding flavor, but there are common pitfalls that can detract from your dish’s success.

• Over-marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate for too long can make it mushy. Aim for a maximum of overnight marination.
• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat for at least 10 minutes before grilling.
• Skipping the skewers: Cooking without skewers may lead to uneven cooking or sticking. Use soaked wooden or metal skewers for even cooking and easy handling.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your chicken bland. Ensure you season the marinade well and add a pinch of salt to the vinaigrette before serving.
• Using too much heat: Grilling on high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium-high heat is ideal for thorough cooking and a nice char.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Moroccan grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and sauté the chicken until warmed throughout, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This marinade works well with beef, lamb, or turkey. Adjust cooking times according to the type of meat used.

What should I serve with Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette?

Consider pairing this delicious dish with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember not to exceed overnight marination.

How do I customize the herby lemon olive vinaigrette?

Feel free to add different herbs like parsley or dill, and adjust the acidity by changing the lemon juice ratio as per your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken with Herby Lemon Olive Vinaigrette is a fantastic way to elevate your dinner table. Its vibrant flavors and quick preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your palate!