Ras El Hanout is a fragrant North African spice blend that brings bold flavors and warm aromas to any dish. When paired with chicken, it creates a deliciously spiced meal that’s both comforting and exotic. This recipe lets us explore the rich culinary heritage of Morocco right in our own kitchens.
We love how Ras El Hanout elevates simple chicken into something extraordinary with its complex mix of spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s perfect for those who enjoy vibrant tastes without complicated cooking. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends this dish promises a flavorful experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
To create an authentic and flavorful Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken, we need to prepare a fresh Ras El Hanout spice mix, a vibrant marinade, and a few additional ingredients that bring the dish together perfectly.
For the Ras El Hanout Spice Mix
This aromatic blend is key to unlocking the dish’s complex taste. Here’s what we’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For the Chicken Marinade
The marinade infuses the chicken with deep flavors that complement the spice blend beautifully:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Ras El Hanout spice mix (from above)
- Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
These ingredients help build moisture and flavor during cooking and provide richness to the final dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in chicken thighs | 6 pieces | Skin-on for extra crispiness |
| Fresh cilantro | 1/4 cup chopped | For garnish |
| Sliced almonds | 2 tablespoons | Lightly toasted for texture |
| Plain Greek yogurt | 1/2 cup | Optional, served as a side dip |
By gathering these ingredients, we set the stage to create a deliciously spiced, tender chicken dish infused with the signature flavors of Ras El Hanout.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken perfectly, having the right tools at hand streamlines the process and ensures outstanding results. Here is the essential equipment we will use throughout the recipe:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for combining the marinade ingredients and tossing the chicken to coat evenly.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of spices and liquids are key to balancing the flavors of Ras El Hanout.
- Sharp Knife: For trimming and scoring the chicken thighs before marinating.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface for preparing the chicken and herbs.
- Whisk or Fork: To blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: For roasting the chicken in the oven to achieve crisp skin and tender meat.
- Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Optional for lining the pan to reduce cleanup.
- Meat Thermometer: To check that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serving Platter or Plates: To present our finished dish beautifully.
- Optional: Spice Grinder: If using whole spices to make your own fresh Ras El Hanout blend.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating and mixing ingredients |
| Measuring Tools | Ensuring precise spice and liquid amounts |
| Sharp Knife | Prepping chicken |
| Cutting Board | Safe cutting surface |
| Whisk or Fork | Blending marinade |
| Baking Dish/Sheet | Roasting chicken |
| Aluminum Foil/Parchment | Easy cleanup |
| Meat Thermometer | Checking chicken doneness |
| Serving Platter | Presentation |
| Spice Grinder | Freshly ground Ras El Hanout (optional) |
By assembling these tools before we begin, our Ras El Hanout chicken cooks evenly and tastes exceptional, delivering the rich, aromatic profile that defines this iconic North African flavor.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, getting the Ras El Hanout spice mix ready and properly marinating the chicken sets the foundation for the dish’s rich flavor. Let’s dive into these essential steps.
Preparing the Ras El Hanout Spice Mix
To capture the authentic, complex aroma of Ras El Hanout, we combine specific ground spices in precise proportions. Freshly measuring and mixing these spices ensures the blend is balanced and vibrant.
| Spice | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon | Adds earthy warmth |
| Ground coriander | 1 tablespoon | Bright citrus undertone |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Sweet and woody |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon | Sharp and spicy |
| Turmeric | 1 teaspoon | Adds color and mild bitterness |
| Ground cloves | ½ teaspoon | Deep, aromatic |
| Ground cardamom | ½ teaspoon | Floral and sweet |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Pungent heat |
| Nutmeg | ¼ teaspoon | Subtle sweetness |
| Allspice | ¼ teaspoon | Warm, peppery notes |
| Cayenne pepper | ⅛ teaspoon (optional) | Adds heat – adjust to taste |
Tip: Use a small bowl to thoroughly whisk the spices together until uniform. This is our signature Ras El Hanout blend to elevate the chicken’s flavor profile.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating infuses the chicken with moisture and the full essence of the Ras El Hanout blend. We use a vibrant mixture of ingredients to tenderize and flavor the meat.
Ingredients for marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons freshly mixed Ras El Hanout spice blend
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Steps to marinate:
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, and honey. Whisk briskly to blend.
- Add minced garlic and stir until evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of the fresh Ras El Hanout spice mix, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk everything together vigorously to create a smooth marinade.
- Place 4 bone-in chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
“The longer we marinate our chicken, the more tender and flavorful it becomes — Ras El Hanout truly shines when given time to infuse.”
This preparation sets us up perfectly for roasting, locking in juices and complex spice layers in every bite.
Cooking Directions
Follow these precise steps to achieve perfectly cooked Ras El Hanout Chicken that bursts with flavor and tender juiciness. We provide stove-top and oven methods to suit your kitchen setup.
Cooking the Chicken on the Stove
- Preheat your skillet: Use a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat the bottom evenly.
- Sear the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook without moving for 6-7 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and reduce heat: Turn the chicken thighs over. Lower the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Simmer gently: Cook for another 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest before serving: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Oven-Baking the Chicken (Optional)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare baking tray: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Arrange the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up with some space between pieces for even cooking.
- Bake uncovered: Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the skin crisps and the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Broil if needed: For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest the chicken: Let the baked thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time (minutes) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stove-top Searing | Medium-high heat | 18-22 total | Sear skin first for crispiness |
| Oven Baking | 400°F (200°C) | 25-30 | Broil last 2-3 minutes optional |
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish the Ras El Hanout Chicken with fresh cilantro leaves for vibrant color and herbal brightness.
- Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds over the top for added crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Serve alongside a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to balance the warm spices with creamy coolness.
- Pair the dish with fluffy couscous, fragrant rice, or warm pita bread to soak up the rich marinade juices.
- Add a simple side salad of cucumber and tomato dressed with lemon juice and olive oil to keep the meal fresh and light.
These accompaniments enhance the aromatic profile of our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken, creating a meal that is truly unforgettable.
Tips and Variations
To make the most of our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken, let’s explore some expert tips and creative variations. These ideas will help us tailor the dish to our tastes and elevate the experience every time.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Balancing the heat and aroma is key to enjoying Ras El Hanout to its fullest. Here’s how we can customize the spice intensity:
| Spice Component | Adjustment Tip | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Cayenne Pepper | Reduce or omit | Milder, less heat |
| Ground Cinnamon & Cloves | Increase slightly | Warmer, sweeter notes |
| Black Pepper | Adjust based on preference | Subtle pungency vs. sharp heat |
| Ginger & Turmeric | Maintain as per recipe | Earthy and vibrant undertones |
For a family-friendly version, we recommend reducing or skipping cayenne pepper altogether.
We can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor that complements the original blend without adding heat.
Alternative Cooking Methods
While searing and oven-baking are popular, we can explore other methods to bring out different textures and flavors in our Ras El Hanout Chicken.
| Cooking Method | Temperature & Time | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilling | Medium-high heat, 6-8 min/side | Crisp exterior, smoky aroma | Ideal for summer cookouts |
| Slow Cooker | Low for 4-6 hours | Tender, falling-off-bone texture | Marinate longer for deeper flavor |
| Air Fryer | 400°F for 20 minutes | Extra crispy skin, juicy interior | Use an air fryer-safe rack |
Each method requires us to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked yet juicy.
Side Dishes to Pair With Ras El Hanout Chicken
Creating a balanced meal means choosing side dishes that complement the complex spices of our Ras El Hanout Chicken. Here are some stellar options:
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Couscous with toasted pine nuts | Nutty, fluffy | Light texture balances rich spices |
| Cucumber and tomato salad | Fresh, crisp | Adds brightness and cooling contrast |
| Roasted root vegetables | Sweet, caramelized | Earthy sweetness enhances warmth |
| Greek yogurt with lemon and mint | Creamy, tangy | Soothes heat and adds creamy texture |
| Warm pita bread | Mild, chewy | Perfect for scooping up sauce and chicken |
Serving a dollop of plain Greek yogurt garnished with fresh mint is an effortless way to add cooling richness.
These pairings ensure our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken shines as the centerpiece of a memorable meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
For the best results with our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken, planning ahead is essential. Marinating the chicken properly not only infuses it with the complex flavors of the spice blend but also tenderizes the meat for a juicy, mouthwatering dish. Here’s how we recommend preparing your chicken in advance:
Step 1: Prepare the Ras El Hanout Marinade
- Combine Ras El Hanout spice mix, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Whisk these ingredients until the marinade is smooth and homogenous, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly
- Place the bone-in chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
- For an even flavor distribution, massage the marinade into the chicken with your hands or turn the bag a few times.
Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight or Up to 24 Hours
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and place it in the refrigerator.
- Allowing the chicken to marinate for 8 to 24 hours maximizes flavor absorption and tenderizes the meat deeply.
“Marinating overnight is key to unlocking the full aromatic complexity of Ras El Hanout.”
Step 4: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature Before Cooking
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking.
- This helps the chicken cook evenly and maintain a juicy texture.
| Make-Ahead Timing | Effect on Flavor and Texture |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Light flavor infusion, less tender |
| 2 to 4 hours | Moderate flavor boost, tenderizing begins |
| 8 to 24 hours | Deeply infused flavors, optimum tenderness |
Additional Tips for Make-Ahead Prep
- If you want to prep everything a day ahead, you can also toast sliced almonds and chop fresh cilantro, storing them separately in airtight containers.
- The Greek yogurt dip can be mixed with lemon and mint up to two days in advance and kept chilled.
- Label your containers with prep dates to keep kitchen organization smooth and efficient.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we ensure that every piece of our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken delivers that unmistakable, vibrant Moroccan flavor and tender texture when it’s time to cook and serve.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating of Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken ensure its flavors stay vibrant and the texture remains tender. Follow these guidelines to maintain the quality and safety of our delicious dish.
Storage Tips
- Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Place the chicken in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or foil.
- Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Recommended Duration | Storage Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3 to 4 days | Airtight container, 40°F or lower |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Airtight container, 0°F or lower |
Reheating Instructions
To retain the rich aroma of the Ras El Hanout blend and keep the chicken juicy:
- Oven Reheating (Best for maintaining crispiness)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying.
- Heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Stovetop Reheating
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add a small drizzle of olive oil.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cover with a lid.
- Cook for 5 to 7 minutes turning occasionally, until heated through.
- Microwave Reheating (Quickest method)
- Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover loosely to retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, flipping midway, until warmed thoroughly.
Always ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Additional Storage Advice
- Store any leftover marinade separately in the refrigerator and discard after 1 day, or better yet, avoid storing used marinade.
- If garnishes like fresh cilantro or toasted almonds remain, store them in separate airtight containers at room temperature or refrigerate cilantro to preserve freshness.
- To revive flavor while reheating, sprinkle a light drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of Ras El Hanout spice mix after reheating.
By following these Storage and Reheating best practices, we can enjoy our Ras El Hanout Recipe Chicken at its peak flavor and texture every time.
Conclusion
Bringing Ras El Hanout into our kitchens opens up a world of vibrant flavors and rich aromas that transform everyday chicken into a memorable dish. With its versatile spice blend and simple preparation methods, this recipe fits perfectly into our busy lives while impressing family and friends.
By mastering the marinating and cooking techniques, we ensure tender, juicy chicken every time. Pairing it with fresh garnishes and complementary sides completes the experience, making each meal feel special.
This recipe not only celebrates Moroccan culinary heritage but also invites us to explore and customize flavors to suit our tastes. It’s a delicious way to add excitement and warmth to our dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ras El Hanout?
Ras El Hanout is a traditional North African spice blend made from multiple spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s known for its complex, aromatic flavor and is commonly used to enhance dishes like chicken, giving them an exotic and rich taste.
What spices are in Ras El Hanout?
Typical spices in Ras El Hanout include ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cloves, cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg, allspice, and optional cayenne pepper for heat. This blend creates a balanced and vibrant flavor profile.
How do I make Ras El Hanout chicken?
Marinate bone-in chicken thighs with a mixture of Ras El Hanout spice blend, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Then cook by searing on the stove or baking in the oven until the chicken is fully cooked and crispy.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
You will need mixing bowls, measuring spoons, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a meat thermometer. These tools help ensure accurate seasoning, safe cooking, and easy preparation.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for 8 to 24 hours. Longer marination allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, making it tender and flavorful.
Can I cook Ras El Hanout chicken using different methods?
Yes, you can sear the chicken on the stovetop, bake it in the oven at 400°F, grill, slow cook, or air fry it. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How do I store leftover Ras El Hanout chicken?
Cool the chicken to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Proper storage helps maintain flavor and texture.
What sides go well with Ras El Hanout chicken?
Great side dishes include couscous with toasted pine nuts, cucumber and tomato salad, roasted root vegetables, plain Greek yogurt with lemon and mint, and warm pita bread to complement the spicy flavors.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, the chicken can be marinated ahead of time (up to 24 hours), and garnishes like cilantro, toasted almonds, and dips can be prepped in advance to streamline cooking on the day you serve.
How do I reheat Ras El Hanout chicken without drying it out?
Reheat the chicken in the oven, on the stovetop, or microwave, covering it to retain moisture and prevent dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F before serving.