Moroccan Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Almonds and Dates is a luxurious and flavorful dish that combines tender roasted chicken with a sweet and nutty stuffing. This dish is perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings, as it brings together the rich flavors of Moroccan spices, crunchy almonds, and sweet dates. The result is a beautifully golden chicken with a deliciously aromatic stuffing that will impress your guests.

Moroccan Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Almonds and Dates

Golden roasted chicken stuffed with almonds and dates.

What Makes This Dish Special?

This dish is a celebration of Moroccan flavors and textures. The chicken is marinated with a blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, and saffron, then stuffed with a mixture of almonds, dates, and herbs. The stuffing adds a sweet and nutty contrast to the savory chicken, while the roasting process ensures the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. It's a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 1.5-2 kg)
  • For the Marinade:
    • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
    • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
    • 1 tablespoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
    • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm water)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • For the Stuffing:
    • 1/2 cup almonds (chopped)
    • 1/2 cup dates (pitted and chopped)
    • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
    • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • For Roasting:
    • 1 onion (cut into wedges)
    • 2-3 carrots (cut into chunks)
    • 2-3 potatoes (cut into chunks)
Ingredients for Moroccan Roasted Chicken

Ingredients needed for Moroccan Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Almonds and Dates.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, ginger, turmeric, saffron water, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix well to form a smooth paste.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  3. Prepare the Stuffing: In a bowl, mix the chopped almonds, dates, parsley, cilantro, cinnamon, and olive oil. Stuff the mixture into the cavity of the chicken.
  4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  5. Arrange the Vegetables: Place the onion wedges, carrots, and potatoes in a roasting pan. Place the marinated and stuffed chicken on top of the vegetables.
  6. Roast the Chicken: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the skin is golden and crispy. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve hot with the roasted vegetables and any remaining stuffing.
Serving Moroccan Roasted Chicken

Serving Moroccan Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Almonds and Dates.

Tips for the Perfect Dish

  • For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • If you don't have dates, you can use raisins or dried apricots as a substitute.
  • Basting the chicken with pan juices during roasting ensures it stays moist and flavorful.
  • Serve with a side of Moroccan salad or couscous for a complete meal.

Why You'll Love This Dish

Moroccan Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Almonds and Dates is a dish that combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in every bite. The tender chicken, aromatic spices, and rich stuffing make it a meal that's perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. It's a dish that's sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.

Conclusion

Moroccan Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Almonds and Dates is a luxurious and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Moroccan cuisine. With its tender meat, crispy skin, and delicious stuffing, it's a meal that's perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Morocco in your own home!