The savory aroma of Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds wafts through the air, enticing your senses and making your mouth water. Picture tender chicken simmering in a rich blend of spices, sweet apricots, and crunchy almonds; it’s a dish that dances on your palate and gives you a warm hug from the inside out. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Moroccan Spiced Salmon recipe.
This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and festive gatherings. Ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting weeknight feast, this dish promises to elevate any occasion into something extraordinary. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Instant Pot makes cooking this Moroccan-inspired dish super easy, allowing flavors to meld perfectly in no time.
- The combination of sweet apricots and crunchy almonds creates an unforgettable taste explosion.
- Vibrant colors make this dish visually stunning, transforming any dinner plate into an art piece.
- It’s versatile enough to serve with rice, couscous, or veggies, making it perfect for all occasions.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, perfect for absorbing the spices and sweetness of the apricots. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
- Dried Apricots: Choose plump ones for maximum sweetness; they add a lovely contrast to the savory elements.
- Sliced Almonds: Toast them slightly before adding for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds depth to the dish; sautéing it first enhances its sweetness.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings in that aromatic punch; don’t skimp!
For the Spices:
- Cumin: This earthy spice is essential in Moroccan cuisine, giving warmth and richness to the dish.
- Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds a sweet warmth that pairs beautifully with apricots.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger adds zest and brightness; it’s like sunshine in your pot!
For Additional Flavoring:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing the overall flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add some oil and toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir frequently until they become soft and fragrant—about three minutes will do the trick!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While your onions are doing their thing, season your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and ginger. Don’t be shy; let those spices work their magic!
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add seasoned chicken thighs to the pot with those glorious onions. Brown them on both sides for about five minutes total. This step locks in all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Add Dried Apricots and Broth
Once everything is nicely browned, throw in those dried apricots along with your choice of chicken broth. Give it a good stir—this is where the magic begins.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Securely close your Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for ten minutes. Once done cooking, allow natural pressure release for about five minutes before quickly releasing any remaining steam.
Step 6: Serve with Almonds
Carefully open the lid (watch out for steam). Sprinkle toasted almonds over your chicken before serving! Transfer everything onto plates or bowls—don’t forget to drizzle some broth over!
Now you’re ready to dig in! Pair this delightful Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds with fluffy couscous or steamed veggies for an unforgettable meal that’s bursting with flavor!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
- The aromatic spices and the sweetness of apricots create a dance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then sauté the onions and garlic while preparing the spices. Finally, add the apricots and almonds to infuse sweetness into your dish. Cooking sequentially guarantees every bite is packed with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out apricots for dried figs or add a splash of orange juice for extra zest. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or even a pinch of chili for heat. Make this dish truly yours by adding your favorite ingredients.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring it stays tender and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Use high-quality spices for maximum flavor impact.
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; developing those flavors takes time, but it’s worth every second!
It was my cousin’s wedding when I first made this dish. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary rock star! Moments like these remind me why I love cooking so much.
FAQs
What spices are used in Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds?
The flavor profile of Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds comes from a blend of warm and aromatic spices. Common spices include cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika. These spices create a rich and fragrant sauce that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of apricots and the crunchiness of almonds. Adjust the spice quantities to suit your taste preferences, and feel free to add more for an extra kick.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken?
Cooking Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds is quick and efficient. The actual cooking time is around 15 to 20 minutes under pressure. However, don’t forget to account for the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and release afterward. Overall, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 30 to 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily customize this recipe by substituting chicken with another protein like turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the protein used. For example, turkey may require a bit longer in the Instant Pot, while chickpeas will need pre-soaking if you choose dried ones. Adjust your cooking time accordingly for optimal results.
What side dishes pair well with Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken?
Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Consider serving it over fluffy couscous or steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad can add freshness and texture to your meal. roasted root vegetable medley fluffy coconut rice For an authentic touch, serve some warm pita bread on the side for dipping into any remaining sauce.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds
In summary, Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds offers a delightful blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to North Africa. Utilizing aromatic spices and sweet apricots, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also quick thanks to the Instant Pot’s efficiency. creamy chicken noodle casserole Whether you choose chicken or another protein, this recipe is adaptable and sure to impress at any dinner table. creamy marry me chicken meatballs Enjoy this flavorful meal that combines convenience and exotic tastes in one pot!
Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken with Apricots & Almonds is a deliciously aromatic dish that combines tender chicken thighs with sweet apricots and crunchy almonds, all infused with warm spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this one-pot meal is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Experience a taste of North Africa with every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Season chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and ginger.
- Add seasoned chicken to the pot and brown on both sides for about 5 minutes total.
- Stir in dried apricots and chicken broth.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam.
- Carefully open the lid, sprinkle toasted almonds over the chicken, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added depth of flavor, sauté onions until caramelized before adding garlic. Substitute dried apricots with figs or raisins for a different flavor profile. Serve over couscous or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
