Imagine a culinary journey that transforms ordinary chicken into a vibrant, mouthwatering experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling markets of Marrakech. These Moroccan Chicken Salad Kale Wraps are not just a meal – they're an adventure wrapped in nutrient-packed kale leaves, bursting with aromatic spices and unexpected flavor combinations that will make your dinner guests beg for the recipe. Prepare to revolutionize your lunch game with a dish that's as healthy as it is incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- 4 large kale leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning with cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Once cooled, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even texture.
- Toast sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Wash kale leaves thoroughly and pat dry. Remove tough center stems by folding leaves and cutting along the spine.
- Chop dried apricots into small, uniform pieces to distribute evenly in the chicken salad mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped apricots, toasted almonds, and additional seasoning to taste.
- Lay out kale leaves and spoon chicken salad mixture into the center of each leaf.
- Carefully roll the kale leaves, tucking in sides to create a secure wrap.
- Slice wraps diagonally and serve immediately, optionally with a side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F for optimal safety and juiciness.
- Spice Intensity: Toast your spices briefly before seasoning to unlock deeper, more complex flavor profiles.
- Kale Preparation: Massage kale leaves gently with a touch of olive oil to soften them and make wrapping easier.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe can be partially prepared in advance. Cook and shred chicken and chop ingredients earlier in the day to streamline dinner preparation.
- Customization Option: For a dairy-free version, replace yogurt sauce with a tahini-lemon dressing for an authentic Moroccan touch.
- Texture Tip: Ensure almonds are golden but not burnt when toasting – they should be fragrant and crisp.Pro tip: These wraps are not just delicious but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and nutrients, making them a perfect balanced meal for health-conscious food lovers!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
