I’m always looking for new spices to combine with chicken which brings us to the rich tapestry of flavors found in the exotic spice blend known as Ras El Hanout. As the sizzle of the grill beckons and the aroma of spices fills the air, we’re about t0transform humble chicken thighs into a gastronomic delight that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests clamoring for more.
What is Ras El Hanout?
Originating from North Africa, Ras El Hanout is a complex blend of spices that captures the essence of the region’s culinary heritage. Traditionally handcrafted by spice merchants, each blend is a unique symphony of flavors, combining spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, cloves, and more. The name itself, which translates to “head of the shop” in Arabic, signifies the blend’s premium status and the artisanal craftsmanship that goes into its creation.
ras el hanout
Why does Ras El Hanout work well with Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs, with their juicy tenderness and robust flavor, provide the perfect canvas for showcasing the aromatic notes of this spice. When combined, the spices infuse the meat with layers of complexity, imparting warmth, depth, and a hint of exoticism. The earthy undertones of cumin and coriander harmonize with the floral sweetness of cinnamon, while the subtle heat of chili peppers adds a gentle kick to the ensemble. It’s a marriage of flavors that dances on the palate with every bite.
Chicken Thighs seasoned with ras el hanout
How to grill chicken thighs with Ras El Hanout.
To achieve grilled perfection, start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs with Ras El Hanout, ensuring that each piece is coated with the fragrant spice blend. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat. You can leave the chicken in the refrigerator up to 12 hours letting the seasoning penetrate deep in the chicken. Before putting on the grill add kosher salt as well.
Preheat your gas grill to medium heat. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side up, over direct heat and cook for approximately 8 minutes. Open the lid of the grill and with a pair of tongs flip the chicken for another 8 minutes.
Keep an eye on the grill, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking. Because thighs have a layer of fatty skin, flares happen easier then skinless chicken breasts.
Ras el Hanout Chicken Thighs
As the chicken thighs sizzle and grill marks form, prepare to elevate this dish to culinary greatness with a final flourish of freshness. Just before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the grilled chicken. The bright tangy citrusy burst of lemon will provide the perfect counterpoint to the rich, aromatic flavors of the Ras El Hanout and richness of the thighs.
What internal temperature should you grill chicken thighs?
Take out a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thighs before you take them off the grill. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, you should not consume chicken unless it’s at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Because the thighs are bone in, I prefer to keep them on to a little over 165 degrees Fahrenheit and then take them off the grill and let them rest. As they rest, the internal temp will rise a few more degrees.
Grilled Chicken Thigh with Ras El Hanout seasoning
What should you serve with Ras El Hanout Chicken thighs?
Serve your Ras El Hanout grilled chicken thighs alongside a vibrant medley of grilled vegetables, couscous, or fluffy basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Chicken thighs are great with a variety of different types of seasoning. Experiment with different flavors and don’t limit yourself to just salt and pepper. With its tantalizing flavors, Ras El Hanout has the power to elevate even the simplest of dishes to extraordinary heights. By infusing chicken thighs with this aromatic spice blend and grilling them to juicy perfection, you’ll embark on a culinary adventure that delights the senses and transports you to the sun-drenched landscapes of North Africa. So fire up the grill, unleash your inner chef, and prepare to dazzle your guests with this fantastic chicken dish!
Ras El Hanout chicken thigh
Ras El Hanout Chicken
I'm always looking for new spices to combine with chicken which brings us to the rich tapestry of flavors found in the exotic spice blend known as Ras El Hanout. As the sizzle of the grill beckons and the aroma of spices fills the air, we're about to transform humble chicken thighs into a gastronomic delight that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests clamoring for more.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds of bone in chicken thighs
- 5 tablespoons Ras el Hanout seasoning
- salt
- Lemon
Instructions
Generously season your chicken thighs with Ras El Hanout, ensuring that each piece is coated with the fragrant spice blend.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat. You can leave the chicken in the refrigerator up to 12 hours letting the seasoning penetrate deep in the chicken.
Before putting on the grill add kosher salt as well.
Preheat your gas grill to medium heat.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side up, over direct heat and cook for approximately 8 minutes.
Open the lid of the grill and with a pair of tongs flip the chicken for another 8 minutes until the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Before taking off the grill squeeze the juice of one lemon over the thighs.
Remove and let the chicken sit for five minutes and then serve.
Notes
Make sure your grill is clean before grilling chicken thighs.
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