Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Morocco with this distinctive chicken and potato salad recipe. Infused with aromatic spices and complemented with the tanginess of olives, this recipe offers a refreshing twist to your standard salad. It's a great way to bring some exotic flair to your lunch or dinner, and it's sure to impress any dinner guest.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you may need to look for a few special items. For instance, flat leaf parsley, also known as Italian parsley, has a more robust flavor than the curly variety commonly found in supermarkets. Also, boiling potatoes are a specific variety of potato that holds its shape well when cooked, making it perfect for this salad. Finally, black olives add a burst of salty flavor, and can be found in jars or cans in most grocery stores.
Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad with Olives
Boiling potatoes: A type of potato that remains firm when cooked.
Lemon juice: Adds a tangy flavor to the salad.
Ground cumin: A spice that adds a warm and earthy flavor.
Paprika: A spice made from ground peppers, adds color and mild sweetness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a kick of spice.
Ground ginger: Adds a spicy, slightly sweet flavor.
Oregano: A herb that adds a pungent, slightly bitter flavor.
Olive oil: Used for cooking and dressing the salad.
Chicken: The main protein in this salad.
Red onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor.
Black olives: Adds a salty, briny flavor.
Flat leaf parsley: Used for its robust flavor and garnishing.
One reader, Jsandye Simonson says:
This Moroccan chicken and potato salad with olives recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices and the freshness of the ingredients create an explosion of flavors. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a summer gathering. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and has become a staple in my recipe collection.
Techniques Required for Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad With Olives
How to boil potatoes: Boil the potatoes in a medium saucepan with salted water until tender, about 25 minutes. Drain and let them cool before peeling and slicing.
How to make the dressing: Whisk together lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, ginger, oregano, and olive oil in a small bowl until well combined.
How to grill chicken: Heat a grill pan or heavy frying pan over moderate heat. Coat the chicken with oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Let it cool before slicing.
How to assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm potatoes with half of the dressing. Add the sliced chicken, onion, olives, parsley, and the remaining dressing, then toss to combine. Serve and enjoy!
How To Make Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad with Olives
Juicy Moroccan chicken and tender potatoes are tossed in a spicy and tangy dressing mix in this delectably filling potato salad dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbsboiling potatoes,(about 5)
- 1½tbsplemon juice
- 1tspground cumin
- 1tsppaprika
- 1tspsalt
- fresh ground black pepper
- ¼tspground ginger
- ¼tspdried oregano
- 7tbspolive oil
- 1lbchicken,boneless
- ½red onion
- cupblack olives
- ½cupflat leaf parsley,chopped
Instructions
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Put the potatoes in a medium saucepan with salted water to cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook at a gentle boil for about 25 minutes, until tender.
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Drain the potatoes. When they are cool enough to handle, peel the potatoes and cut into ¼-inch slices.
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In a small glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, cumin, paprika, ¾ teaspoon of the salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, the ginger, and the oregano. Whisk in 6 tablespoons of the oil.
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Heat a grill pan or a heavy frying pan over moderate heat.
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For the grill pan, coat the chicken with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, then sprinkle with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of pepper.
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Cook the chicken for 5 minutes. Turn and cook for about 4 minutes longer, until browned and just done.
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Remove, and when cool enough to handle, cut the chicken into ¼-inch slices.
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For the frying pan, heat the oil in the pan and then season, cook, and slice the chicken in the same way.
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In a large bowl, combine the warm potatoes with half of the dressing. Add the chicken, onion, olives, parsley, and the remaining dressing and toss.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 600.52kcal
- Fat: 41.18g
- Saturated Fat: 8.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 24.43g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.31g
- Carbohydrates: 33.36g
- Fiber: 4.83g
- Sugar: 2.28g
- Protein: 25.24g
- Cholesterol: 85.05mg
- Sodium: 677.83mg
- Calcium: 59.60mg
- Potassium: 1039.32mg
- Iron: 3.60mg
- Vitamin A: 92.90µg
- Vitamin C: 48.72mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad
When preparing the potatoes, ensure they are cooked just until tender. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture in your salad. To check for doneness, insert a fork into one of the potatoes. If it goes in easily, they are ready to be drained. Also, when slicing the chicken, use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This will result in tender, easy-to-chew pieces. Lastly, when whisking the dressing, do so vigorously to ensure the oil and lemon juice emulsify properly, creating a smooth and well-blended dressing.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad
Prep ahead: Prepare the dressing and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cooked chicken: Utilize pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time and simplify the recipe.
Multi-task: While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the dressing and slice the chicken to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Invest in a grill pan: Using a grill pan can speed up the cooking process and add a delicious charred flavor to the chicken.
Chop ingredients in advance: Pre-chop the onions, olives, and parsley to streamline the assembly process when making the salad.
Substitute Ingredients For Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad with Olives Recipe
boiling potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a similar waxy texture and creamy flavor, making them a suitable substitute for boiling potatoes in this recipe.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika will add a deeper, smokier flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good alternative for olive oil in this recipe.
boneless chicken - Substitute with boneless turkey: Boneless turkey can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken in this recipe.
black olives - Substitute with kalamata olives: Kalamata olives have a rich, fruity flavor and a meaty texture, which can add a unique twist to the dish.
flat leaf parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and vibrant flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the salad.
Presenting Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad With Olives
Elevate the plating: Arrange the sliced Moroccan chicken and potato salad with olives in a visually appealing manner, ensuring each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate color contrast: Utilize the vibrant hues of the olives, parsley, and spices to create a visually striking and appetizing presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element, ensuring that the potatoes, chicken, and olives are meticulously arranged to showcase the dish's artistry.
Garnish with finesse: Add a final touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the overall visual appeal.
Emphasize balance: Strive for a balanced composition, ensuring that the colors, textures, and shapes complement each other harmoniously on the plate.
Highlight the ingredients: Showcase the individual components of the dish, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the potatoes, chicken, olives, and parsley to shine through in the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad
- Medium saucepan: A medium-sized cooking vessel with a handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, or heating ingredients.
- Grill pan or heavy frying pan: A pan with ridges or a heavy-bottomed pan used for grilling or frying the chicken.
- Small glass or stainless-steel bowl: A small container for mixing and whisking ingredients together.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
- Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Large bowl: A spacious container for mixing and tossing the salad ingredients together.
Storing and Freezing Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad With Olives
To store the moroccan chicken and potato salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day!
If you want to freeze the salad, it's best to store the chicken, potatoes, and dressing separately. Allow the chicken and potatoes to cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen salad, thaw the chicken and potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Prepare the dressing fresh and toss everything together just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
To maintain the best quality of the olives and parsley, add them to the salad only when you're ready to serve. This will prevent the olives from becoming too soft and the parsley from wilting.
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can repurpose the salad by stuffing it into pita bread or wraps for a quick and tasty lunch. The bold flavors of the cumin, paprika, and lemon juice will make any leftover salad a treat to enjoy!
How To Reheat Leftover Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover moroccan chicken and potato salad in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the salad in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the salad and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Transfer the leftover salad to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave the salad on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until it's heated to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the salad, as it may cause the potatoes to become mushy.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the leftover salad in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salad to the skillet and stir-fry it for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through and the potatoes are slightly crispy on the edges. This method adds a nice crunch to the salad and enhances the flavors of the spices.
If you want to enjoy the salad cold, simply remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature. This method is perfect for a quick and refreshing lunch or a light summer dinner.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover salad, try tossing it with some baby spinach or arugula leaves. The greens will add a nice contrast to the warm chicken and potatoes, and the lemon juice in the dressing will help to brighten up the flavors.
Interesting Fact About Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad With Olives
The Moroccan chicken and potato salad with olives recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It combines the earthy taste of potatoes with the tangy and savory notes of olives and spices. This dish is a great representation of the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Morocco, showcasing the country's use of bold spices and fresh ingredients. It's a perfect dish for a summer gathering or a light and refreshing meal. The combination of cumin, paprika, and lemon juice adds a burst of flavor to the dish, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.
Is Making Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this Moroccan chicken and potato salad with olives recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as potatoes, chicken, olives, and spices, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical choice for a family meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option for a delicious and wholesome meal.
Is This Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad Recipe Healthy?
The Moroccan chicken and potato salad with olives recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The chicken provides lean protein, while the potatoes offer complex carbohydrates and fiber. The olive oil and olives contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and the lemon juice, onion, and parsley add vitamins and antioxidants. However, the recipe does contain a considerable amount of salt and oil, which could be reduced for a healthier option.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues. Instead, rely on the natural flavors of the herbs and spices to enhance the dish
- Use a smaller amount of olive oil or opt for a lighter alternative, such as cooking spray, to reduce the overall calorie and fat content
- Include more vegetables in the salad, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Swap out the black olives for kalamata olives, which are lower in sodium and higher in antioxidants
- Use skinless chicken breast to further reduce the fat content of the dish
- Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens to add more vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad Recipe
The combination of flavors in this Moroccan chicken and potato salad with olives recipe is truly delightful. The blend of cumin, paprika, and ginger creates a rich and aromatic marinade for the chicken, while the olives and parsley add a burst of freshness. The addition of lemon juice provides a zesty kick, balancing the earthy flavors. The wine recommendation is spot on, as a well-chilled rosé from the south of France would complement the dish perfectly. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, making it a wonderful choice for a light and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad with Olives Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Explore the Flavors: Dishes Similar to Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad
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Why trust this Moroccan Chicken and Potato Salad with Olives Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the earthy warmth of cumin and paprika with the zesty brightness of lemon juice. The use of olive oil not only enhances the dish's richness but also provides heart-healthy benefits. The inclusion of black olives adds a briny depth, while the aromatic flat leaf parsley lends a fresh finish. With a harmonious blend of Moroccan spices and quality ingredients, this recipe promises a tantalizing culinary experience that's both authentic and delicious.
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