There’s something truly enchanting about the first bite of a Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouat. As you break through the golden, flaky phyllo pastry, the rich aroma of warm spices and tender chicken fills the air, whisking you away to sun-soaked Moroccan streets filled with vibrant flavors. I first encountered these delicious morsels at a friend’s gathering, and I was instantly captivated by not only their beautiful presentation but also their ability to bring people together around the table.
These briouats are the perfect embodiment of comfort and elegance in one bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a delightful homemade snack, they are impressively easy to prepare. From crispy edges that invite you in to a savory filling bursting with spices, they’re bound to become a favorite for everyone. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining. So grab your apron, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart!
Why Choose Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats?
Exotic Flavors: Each briouat is a burst of Moroccan spices, providing a unique culinary experience right at home.
Impressive Presentation: These elegant, golden triangles are not just delicious; they look stunning on any table, making them a perfect appetizer for gatherings.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something extraordinary!
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and freeze for last-minute entertaining, ensuring you’re always ready to impress.
Versatile Filling: Feel free to customize your filling! From chicken to vegetable variations, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy alongside dips like tzatziki or garlic yogurt for a complete mezze experience!
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Phyllo Pastry – Offers that irresistible, flaky texture; you can use brick pastry for a more traditional touch.
• Butter or Oil – Crucial for enhancing the flavor and crispiness; make sure to brush generously for the best results.
For the Filling
• Cooked Chicken – The star of the show; shredded rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saver, packed with flavor.
• Onions – Sweetness and depth are key; sauté until translucent to unlock their full potential.
• Cumin – Essential for that warm, earthy note; consider coriander or caraway seeds as alternatives if needed.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth; use sparingly to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.
• Ginger – Introduces a zesty pop; fresh ginger is ideal, though ground will suffice in a pinch.
• Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, mint) – Elevate the dish with freshness; if needed, substitute parsley for dill for a different vibe.
Serving Suggestions
• Dips – Serve alongside tzatziki or garlic yogurt; these will enhance the flavors of your Moroccan spiced chicken briouats perfectly.
How to Make Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
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Prepare Filling: Sauté onions in a skillet over medium heat until they become translucent. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and mix well. Cook for another few minutes until fragrant. Fold in fresh herbs and let it cool for a bit.
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Assemble Briouats: Lay out the phyllo sheets on a clean surface and brush each sheet lightly with melted butter or oil. Cut the sheets into strips about 3 inches wide. Place a generous scoop of the filling at one end and fold them into triangles, tucking in the edges as you go.
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Cooking Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled briouats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy. If you prefer a fried version, heat a pot of oil and fry until golden brown.
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Cool & Serve: Allow the briouats to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, where the crispiness meets the savory filling in perfect harmony.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flair before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats?
Transform your appetizer experience with delicious pairings that perfectly complement the warm, flaky delight of your briouats.
- Minted Yogurt Dip: A refreshing, tangy dip that balances the spices, making every bite even more delightful.
- Harissa Sauce: This spicy North African sauce elevates the flavor profile, adding an exciting kick that works beautifully with the briouats.
- Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs serves as a wonderful side, offering a delicious contrast to the rich filling.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of charred veggies adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Tabbouleh: This herby salad brings a burst of freshness with its vibrant parsley and tomatoes, balancing the warm spices of the briouats perfectly.
- Chickpea Hummus: Creamy and earthy, hummus presents a smooth texture that complements the crispy pastry well, ideal for dipping.
- Chardonnay or Mint Tea: Pair your dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay for a sophisticated touch, or opt for mint tea for a traditional Moroccan experience.
- Baklava: Enrich your meal with a sweet dessert, the honey-soaked layers offer a rich finish after the savory briouats.
These pairings create a beautiful and aromatic meal that embraces the spirit of Moroccan cuisine, ensuring a comforting and inviting dining experience for everyone at your table.
Make Ahead Options
These Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying a delicious homemade treat! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply sauté the onions, spices, and shredded chicken, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the briouats and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. For even longer storage, freeze the assembled briouats in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes until golden and crispy, ensuring they remain just as delicious!
Variations & Substitutions for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
Feel free to personalize these delightful briouats to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese for a savory twist. This combination adds a hearty richness while aligning perfectly with the aromatic spices.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra layer of heat. This fiery twist makes each bite even more thrilling, perfect if you enjoy a spicy adventure!
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped toasted almonds or pistachios into the chicken mixture for added crunch and nuttiness. The contrast of textures complements the softness of the filling beautifully, creating a satisfying experience.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and substitute with a plant-based cheese in the filling for a creaminess that respects dairy-free choices. You’ll still relish that incredible flavor without any dairy!
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Middle Eastern Flair: Enhance the filling with ingredients like sumac or za’atar to give a nod to Middle Eastern cuisine. The lively flavors will transport you to the markets of Marrakech, making your briouats truly unique.
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Herb Variations: Feel free to switch out parsley for fresh cilantro or basil, depending on your flavor preferences. Each herb lends a different freshness that can change the overall profile of your briouats.
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Crispier Texture: For super crispy edges, try frying instead of baking. This method creates a golden-brown crust that’s irresistibly crunchy and perfect for those who prefer a classic fried treat.
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Mini Bites: For a fun twist, cut phyllo sheets into smaller squares to make bite-sized bundles. These mini briouats are perfect for hors d’oeuvres or appetizers at parties and gatherings, making them a hit at any event!
Expert Tips for Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
• Filling Ahead: Prepare the chicken filling up to 2 days in advance. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Freezing Technique: Assemble briouats in a single layer, freeze, and then store in a container. You can bake them straight from frozen—no need to thaw!
• Sizing Matters: For bite-sized appetizers, cut the phyllo into narrower strips and use less filling. This makes them easy to nibble on during gatherings.
• Butter vs. Oil: Using butter instead of oil enhances both flavor and texture in baked Moroccan spiced chicken briouats. Brush evenly for a golden crust.
• Watch the Spice: Be cautious with cinnamon; just a hint is all you need. Too much can overpower the delightful taste of the chicken and herbs.
How to Store and Freeze Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats
Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked briouats at room temperature for up to 2 hours to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: Store cooled briouats in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain crispness.
Freezer: Assemble briouats and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) without thawing for a quick and delightful treat.
Reheating: For best results, reheat baked briouats in the oven until warmed through—this will keep the phyllo pastry flaky and enjoyable.
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Recipe FAQs
What type of phyllo pastry should I use?
Absolutely! You can use standard phyllo pastry for that irresistible flaky texture. If you’re looking for a more traditional take, brick pastry is an excellent alternative that works well too.
How should I store leftover briouats?
For optimal freshness, store any cooled briouats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they regain their crispiness.
Can I freeze Moroccan spiced chicken briouats?
Very! To freeze, assemble the briouats but don’t bake them. Instead, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealable container or a zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them at 375°F (190°C) directly from frozen for about 25 minutes until golden and crisp.
I have some leftover filling; how long can it be stored?
You can store any leftover chicken filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to warm it up before using it in other recipes, like stuffed peppers or even spread on toast!
What if my phyllo pastry tears while assembling?
No worries! Phyllo pastry can be a bit delicate, but if it tears, simply layer another piece over the tear and brush it with butter or oil to reinforce the area. The layers will add to the flaky texture when baked—everyone appreciates a good crispy bite!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re serving this dish to guests with dietary limitations, ensure to inform them about possible allergens like gluten from the phyllo pastry or spices that may contain traces of nuts. For variations, consider replacing the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables or chickpeas to make them vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy those flavors without worry!
Transform Dinner with Moroccan Spiced Chicken Briouats Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté onions in a skillet over medium heat until they become translucent. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and mix well. Cook for another few minutes until fragrant. Fold in fresh herbs and let it cool.
- Lay out the phyllo sheets on a clean surface and brush each sheet lightly with melted butter or oil. Cut the sheets into strips about 3 inches wide. Place a generous scoop of the filling at one end and fold them into triangles, tucking in the edges as you go.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled briouats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Allow the briouats to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm.