Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary chicken wings into a mouthwatering Moroccan feast! These wings are not just a meal, but a sensory experience that combines bold spices, tender meat, and a burst of Mediterranean magic. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply craving something extraordinary, these Moroccan-style chicken wings will elevate your cooking game and leave everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken wings
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Paprika
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Salt
- Pepper
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken wings by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and better seasoning absorption.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring each wing is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to promote even cooking and crispy skin.
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- While the wings are baking, prepare fresh lemon juice to drizzle over the wings after cooking for a bright, citrusy finish.
- Remove the wings from the oven when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the wings rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and garnish with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of yogurt sauce or harissa for dipping, accompanied by a fresh salad or couscous.
Tips
- Marination is Key: For the most intense flavor, marinate your chicken wings overnight. This allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat and create a more complex taste profile.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Always pat the chicken wings completely dry before marinating and cooking. This ensures a crispy exterior that's crucial for authentic texture.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give your wings plenty of space to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cumin and coriander will make a significant difference in the depth of flavor compared to pre-ground spices.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Finishing Touches: The fresh lemon juice and optional herb garnish are not just decorative – they add a bright, fresh dimension to the rich, spicy wings.
- Serve Immediately: These wings are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven, when the skin is at its crispiest and the flavors are most vibrant.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 512kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 41g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 90mg
