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Moroccan Chicken Msmen

Moroccan Chicken Msmen
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Moroccan Chicken Msmen is a traditional Moroccan dish featuring tender, spiced chicken thighs wrapped in crispy, flaky layered flatbreads called Msmen. This recipe blends warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon with fresh herbs, creating a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. The dough is easy to prepare and creates beautiful crisp layers, making this an impressive yet approachable Moroccan specialty suitable for lunch, dinner, or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For Msmen Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
  • Olive oil or melted butter (for layering and cooking, about 1/4 cup)

For Chicken Filling

  • 4 skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Msmen Dough: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add warm water while stirring to form a smooth, elastic dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is soft but not sticky. Cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll thin.
  2. Cook the Chicken Filling: Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned. Stir in ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is thoroughly cooked and spices are well infused. Remove from heat and mix in chopped cilantro and parsley for a fresh finish.
  3. Roll and Layer the Msmen: Divide the rested dough into equal small balls. On a lightly oiled surface and with oiled hands, gently stretch and roll each ball into a very thin square or rectangle. Brush the surface generously with melted butter or olive oil, then fold several times to create layered dough which will crisp beautifully when cooked.
  4. Cook the Msmen: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place each folded Msmen flatbread onto the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The layered flatbread should separate slightly and become flaky.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of the spiced chicken filling onto each cooked Msmen. Fold or roll as preferred. Serve warm, garnished with toasted sesame seeds or crushed almonds and a drizzle of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Notes

  • Achieve perfect dough consistency by adding water slowly and aiming for a soft, non-sticky dough.
  • Resting the dough is essential for elasticity and easy rolling.
  • Oil your hands and workspace generously to prevent sticking while shaping and folding Msmen.
  • Cook Msmen over medium heat to avoid burning and ensure even crisping.
  • Use skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness.
  • Season generously with Moroccan spices for authentic flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to retain their vibrant taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Moroccan chicken, Msmen, layered flatbread, spiced chicken, Moroccan cuisine, flaky bread, easy Moroccan recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/moroccan-chicken-msmen/