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There’s something truly enchanting about biting into a perfectly crispy pastry that gives way to a savory, aromatic filling. When I first discovered the delightful flavor combination of Moroccan spices, I knew I had to share this experience with you. Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are not just a treat for the taste buds; they offer a glimpse into a world of culinary adventure right from your kitchen.

These little pockets of goodness are versatile enough for a cozy dinner or as an eye-catching appetizer at your next gathering. Picture this: the scent of sautéed garlic and onions wafting through your home, mingling with the earthy notes of cumin and cinnamon. It’s a moment that pulls you away from the mundane routine of fast food and transports you to a bustling Moroccan market.

Join me as we unfold the layers of phyllo pastry and fill them with a fragrant mixture of seasoned chicken and fresh herbs. You’ll find that crafting these briouats is not only easy but incredibly fulfilling, fulfilling that desire for homemade food that truly satisfies. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a little spice to your dinner table!

Why is Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices like cumin, ginger, and cinnamon crafts a taste sensation that dances on your palate.

Quick to Prepare: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy an exotic dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Delight: Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, these briouats fit any occasion and are sure to impress guests!

Crispy Goodness: The flaky phyllo pastry adds a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken filling.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them with harissa or yogurt dip, and watch everyone reach for seconds!

Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Ingredients

For the Filling
• Cooked shredded chicken – adds richness and protein, making these briouats a satisfying dish.
• Onion – finely chopped, it adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• Olive oil – for sautéing; it enhances flavor and helps the onions caramelize perfectly.
• Garlic cloves – minced, adding aromatic flair and enhancing the overall profile of the dish.
• Ground cumin – a key spice that creates the distinctive Moroccan flavor in these briouats.
• Paprika – adds warmth and a vibrant color to the filling.
• Ground ginger – provides a touch of sweetness and pairs beautifully with other spices.
• Ground cinnamon – it introduces a warm, comforting note to this savory dish.
• Salt and pepper – essential seasonings to bring all the flavors to life.
• Chopped fresh parsley – for a burst of color and a fresh herbaceous note.
• Chopped fresh coriander – it adds a bright, vibrant flavor that complements the spices.

For the Pastry
• Phyllo sheets or brick pastry – the foundation of this dish, providing that irresistible crunchy texture.
• Egg yolk – used for sealing the briouats, ensuring the filling stays inside while baking.
• Melted butter or neutral oil – for brushing the pastry; it gives a golden finish and enhances crispiness.

For Garnishing
• Dried mint or parsley flakes – a finishing touch that elevates the presentation and flavor before serving.

Dive into these Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats, and let their delightful flavors whisk you away to a world of culinary joy!

How to Make Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
Combine with Chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and season with ground cumin, paprika, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Add Fresh Herbs: Cook the filling for an additional 3-4 minutes, then fold in the chopped fresh parsley and coriander. Mix thoroughly and remove from heat to cool slightly.
Prepare Phyllo Sheets: Cut the phyllo or brick sheets into strips approximately 3 inches wide, ready for filling.
Fill and Fold: Place a spoonful of the flavorful chicken mixture at the end of each strip. Fold it into triangles like a flag, sealing the edges with a brush of egg yolk.
Arrange for Baking: Lay the folded triangles on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter or oil for that perfect golden finish.
Bake to Perfection: Pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the briouats with dried mint or parsley flakes for an extra touch before serving.

Optional: Serve with harissa or yogurt dip for an added flavor burst.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (shredded chicken combined with the sautéed onion, garlic, and spices) up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh flavors. When ready to assemble, simply cut your phyllo sheets and proceed to fill them with your cooled mixture. After shaping the briouats, you can chill them for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy crispy, golden pastries that are just as delicious as when made fresh! Just brush with butter and bake straight from the fridge when it’s time to serve.

Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to match your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Substitute shredded chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein-packed, plant-based alternative. Add some diced vegetables for extra texture.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling to give your briouats a delightful heat. Spice lovers will rejoice at this fiery fusion!
Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or almonds to the mixture for a crunchy texture and a nutty richness that complements the spices beautifully.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese with the filling. This creamy addition brings a tangy contrast that melts in your mouth.
Sweet Touch: For a sweet-savory flavor, stir in some raisins or dried apricots with the chicken. The natural sweetness balances the spices perfectly for an adventurous bite.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill instead of parsley and coriander to discover new flavor profiles that dance on your palate.
Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps instead of phyllo pastry to create a gluten-free version while still enjoying the delicious filling.
Family-Friendly: Involve kids in the kitchen by letting them help with folding the phyllo layers! You can also lessen the spices for a milder taste if they prefer.

How to Store and Freeze Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

Fridge: Store leftover briouats in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezer: To freeze, place individually wrapped briouats in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Bake frozen briouats directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until heated through and crisp.

Thawing: If thawing, let briouats sit in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

What to Serve with Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats?

Imagine a spread that complements the crispy, spiced goodness of your briouats, enticing all your senses!

Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A light, cooling salad filled with fresh herbs and yogurt that balances the warmth of the briouats beautifully.
Harissa Sauce: This spicy condiment adds a kick and perfectly complements the savory filling of the briouats for an explosion of flavor.
Couscous with Raisins: Fluffy couscous studded with sweet raisins introduces a delightful texture contrast and subtle sweetness to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring not only color but also earthy flavors that pair well with the spiced chicken.
Mint Tea: A traditional accompaniment, this sweet and fragrant beverage serves as a refreshing palate cleanser and rounds out the meal perfectly.
Olive Tapenade: The briny olives add a savory depth that enhances the flavors in the briouats, making for a tasty spread.
Stuffed Grape Leaves: These provide a chewy texture and herbal notes, making them a wonderful side dish next to your delightful briouats.
Baklava: For dessert, serve this sweet pastry with honey and nuts as a traditional finisher that contrasts beautifully with the briouats’ savory nature.

Expert Tips for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats

Thaw Phyllo Properly: Ensure phyllo sheets are fully thawed and covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out while you work.
Filling Consistency: Allow the filling to cool completely before using it. A hot filling can make the pastry soggy when wrapped.
Fold Neatly: For best results, fold the phyllo into triangles carefully, making sure to seal edges tightly with egg yolk to avoid any leaks during baking.
Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on the melted butter or oil; a good brush will result in a lovely golden crust while enhancing the flavor of the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the briouats towards the end of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want them just golden, not burnt!

Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my briouats?
Absolutely! When choosing the chicken, opt for cooked, shredded chicken that’s flavorful—leftover roasted chicken works wonderfully. Ensure your onions are firm and free from dark spots, as they’ll add sweetness when sautéed. Fresh herbs should be vibrant and fragrant, while spices should be stored properly to ensure maximum potency!

How should I store leftover Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats?
Store your leftover briouats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their crispy texture. To enjoy them at their best, it’s smart to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to keep that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats?
Very! To freeze, arrange briouats in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden and crisp. Super simple!

What if my phyllo pastry dries out while I’m prepping?
Don’t worry! If your phyllo starts to dry out, cover it with a damp cloth to keep moisture in as you work. If it does become too dry and flaky, you might need to adjust your folding technique slightly to prevent breakage—keep it gentle!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! For those with gluten intolerance, look for gluten-free phyllo pastry alternatives. If you have a nut allergy, ensure that the butter or oil you use is free from cross-contamination with nuts. Always check your spices for allergen information, particularly if you’re using pre-ground varieties!

Can I make these briouats ahead of time?
Certainly! Prepare the filling and assemble the briouats without baking them up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly. When you’re ready, bake them directly from the fridge—just keep an eye on them as they may need a minute or two longer to cook through.