Name: Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, spatchcocked; 2 tbsp all-purpose Moroccan spice mix (reserve ¼ tsp for apricots); 1 tsp salt; ¾ tsp pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed; 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses; 6 apricots, halved and pitted; 1 shallot, peeled and coarsely chopped; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1½ tbsp honey; 1 tsp pomegranate molasses; ¼ tsp reserved all-purpose Moroccan seasoning

↓ Jump to Recipe

If you’ve been dreaming of a dish that perfectly marries bold spices and the sweet juiciness of fruit, then this Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe is about to become your new favorite. The vibrant all-purpose Moroccan spice blend infuses the chicken with layers of warmth, while the apricots roasted in a honey-pomegranate glaze add a luscious contrast. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that sparks joy with every bite and invites you to savor the rich culinary traditions of Morocco in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a round metal pan filled with bright orange apricot halves glistening with a shiny sauce, mixed with soft, light purple shallot wedges. The apricots and shallots are placed in the pan with sauce pooling at the bottom, giving a moist look. To the right on white parchment paper, there is a piece of dark brown roasted meat with a caramelized surface, next to more apricot halves and fresh green herb leaves scattered around. A vintage silver fork and a knife with a wooden handle rest on the edge of the parchment paper over a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a star role, contributing to the vibrant flavor, tender texture, and beautiful appearance of the dish. They’re simple staples with a Moroccan twist that transform everyday chicken and fruit into something extraordinary.

Whole chicken spatchcocked: Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking and crispy skin all over.
All purpose Moroccan spice mix: This blend of warm, fragrant spices brings authentic depth and complexity.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Olive oil: Adds moisture for a tender roast and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
Lemon zest and juice: Brightens the dish with a fresh, tangy punch.
Garlic: Provides savory depth and an irresistible aroma.
Pomegranate molasses: Offers a unique sweet-tart richness that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Apricots: These juicy fruits caramelize beautifully, adding a natural sweetness and softness to balance the spices.
Shallot: Brings a mild, delicate onion flavor to the apricot glaze.
Honey: Enhances the sweetness in the fruit topping and helps with caramelization.

How to Make Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe

Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste and Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the Moroccan spice blend with olive oil, lemon zest and juice, pomegranate molasses, and garlic in a small bowl. This aromatic paste coats the chicken, bringing all the bold, tangy, and sweet elements right to the surface. Thoroughly rub it all over and inside the chicken, then seal it in a bag to marinate for at least an hour or ideally overnight. This is where the flavors get to work, infusing the meat with that signature Moroccan warmth and complexity.

Step 2: Spatchcock the Chicken

Spatchcocking the chicken means removing the backbone and flattening the bird so it cooks evenly and gets crispy on all sides. Lay the chicken breast-side down, and using poultry shears, cut along each side of the backbone to remove it. Flip it over and press down on the breastbone to flatten it. Securing the legs with skewers is optional but helps keep everything flat for perfect grilling or roasting.

Step 3: Grill or Roast the Chicken

Whether you’re firing up a grill or preheating your oven to 450°F, cooking the chicken until the skin is crisp and the inside reaches 165°F is the key. About 25-30 minutes per side should do it. After cooking, let the chicken rest under foil so those flavorful juices can redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender.

Step 4: Prepare and Roast the Apricots

While the chicken rests, toss apricots in a sweet glaze made from lemon juice and zest, honey, pomegranate molasses, and a pinch of the reserved Moroccan spice. Roasting or grilling these apricots for 10-15 minutes softens them and creates a caramelized finish that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.

How to Serve Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or mint leaves adds a lively green contrast that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. Toasted almonds or slivered pistachios can also bring a delightful crunch that complements the soft apricots and juicy chicken.

Side Dishes

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe shines alongside fluffy couscous or herbed rice, absorbing all those delicious juices. A simple salad of cucumber, tomato, and red onion with a lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing balance to the warmth of the chicken and apricot glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

For a real wow factor, serve the chicken whole on a large platter with apricots artfully arranged around it, drizzled with any cooking juices. Alternatively, slice the chicken and layer it over couscous, then spoon the roasted apricots and glaze on top to create an inviting colorful display that beckons guests to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and apricots separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this dish beyond the initial meal without losing any of the vibrant flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and apricots if you want to save them for later. Wrap them tightly or use freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture intact, or warm in a skillet on low heat. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the chicken and alter the apricots’ delicate texture.

FAQs

What is Moroccan spice mix made of?

Moroccan spice mix commonly includes warm spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and sometimes ginger or cloves. This combination delivers the complex, aromatic flavor profile that defines Moroccan cuisine.

Can I use dried apricots instead of fresh?

While dried apricots won’t caramelize the same way fresh ones do, you can rehydrate them and use them as a substitute. Keep in mind the texture and sweetness will differ, but the flavor will still be delightful.

Is spatchcocking necessary?

Spatchcocking isn’t mandatory but highly recommended. It ensures the chicken cooks evenly, crisps up nicely, and reduces cooking time, making a juicier and more consistent result.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan twist, try substituting the chicken with thick grilled portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks and keep the same apricot glaze and spices to maintain the essence of the dish.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A medium-bodied red like Grenache or a fruity rosé complements the smoky spices and sweet apricots beautifully. For a white option, try a dry Gewürztraminer or a rich Chardonnay.

Final Thoughts

This Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to share. The harmony between smoky, spicy chicken and the sweet, tangy apricots creates a meal that’s as vibrant as it is comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your rotation of flavorful, unforgettable dinners.

Ingredients You'll Need

How to Make Moroccan Grilled Chicken With Apricots Recipe