Crispy Msmen Filled with Chicken: A Moroccan Street Food Delight
Msmen filled with chicken is one of those magical dishes that transports you straight to the bustling souks of Marrakech with just one bite. I’ll never forget my first encounter with this flaky, buttery flatbread stuffed with perfectly spiced chicken – it was at a tiny street vendor’s cart where the sizzling sound and aromatic spices drew me in like a magnet.
The vendor’s weathered hands worked the dough with such expertise, creating paper-thin layers that would soon transform into golden, crispy perfection. What struck me most was how this seemingly simple combination of ingredients created something so extraordinarily satisfying and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This msmen recipe has become my go-to comfort food when I’m craving something both exotic and familiar. The beauty lies in how the tender, spiced chicken mingles with melted cheese between those impossibly flaky layers of dough. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast of textures – crispy exterior giving way to soft, savory filling that’s been enhanced with the warm, complex flavors of ras el hanout and just the right amount of heat from cayenne.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and the way it brings people together. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch, a casual dinner with friends, or meal prepping for busy weekdays, these filled msmen never fail to impress. Explore more trending recipes here to discover similar crowd-pleasing dishes that will elevate your home cooking game.
Ingredients List
This recipe combines simple pantry staples with aromatic spices to create an authentic Moroccan experience. Here’s everything you’ll need, organized by component:
| Component | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| DOUGH | Flour | 500 g |
| Water | 275 ml | |
| Honey | 12 g | |
| Baking powder | 6 g | |
| Salt | 7 g | |
| Sunflower oil | 5 ml | |
| CHICKEN MIXTURE | Chicken thighs | 550 g |
| Yellow onion | 220 g | |
| Olive oil | 10 ml | |
| Ras el hanout | 5 g | |
| Salt | 4 g | |
| Garlic powder | 3 g | |
| Cayenne powder | 3 g | |
| Turmeric powder | 2 g | |
| Dried parsley | 1 g | |
| EXTRA | Cheese | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | For cooking |
The combination of warming spices in this recipe creates layers of flavor that make each msmen truly memorable. Find more weeknight recipe ideas here for additional inspiration when you’re looking to bring international flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Directions
Exact Timing to make Msmen Filled with Chicken
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 45 minutes (dough preparation: 20 minutes, chicken mixture: 25 minutes)
- Resting Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (dough rest)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Start by creating your dough in a large mixing bowl. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder, then create a well in the center. Mix water and honey until the honey dissolves completely, then pour this mixture into the flour well along with the sunflower oil. Using your hands, gradually incorporate the flour into the liquid until a rough dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should feel slightly sticky but manageable. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
While the dough rests, prepare your chicken filling. Cut chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces and dice the onion finely. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with ras el hanout, salt, garlic powder, cayenne, turmeric, and dried parsley. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Divide the rested dough into 6 equal portions and shape into balls. Cover and let rest for another hour. This extended resting period is crucial for achieving the characteristic flaky layers.
Working with one dough ball at a time, roll it out on an oiled surface until paper-thin – you should almost be able to see through it. Brush the surface lightly with oil, then fold the dough into a square, creating multiple layers.
Place a portion of the cooled chicken mixture and cheese in the center of each folded dough square. Seal the edges carefully to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.
Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each filled msmen for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The layers should puff slightly and create a beautiful flaky texture.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of Msmen Filled with Chicken helps you make informed dietary choices while enjoying this flavorful dish.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 piece) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 | 24% |
| Total Fat | 18g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g | 23% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 95mg | 32% |
| Sodium | 620mg | 27% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 52g | 19% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8g | 10% |
| Total Sugars | 3.2g | – |
| Added Sugars | 2g | 4% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Vitamin A | 240 IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 3.2mg | 4% |
| Calcium | 145mg | 11% |
| Iron | 3.8mg | 21% |
Nutritional values are calculated based on standard ingredient databases and may vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods used.
The high protein content comes primarily from the chicken thighs, making this dish particularly satisfying and suitable for muscle maintenance. The complex carbohydrates from the flour provide sustained energy, while the spice blend contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Healthier Alternatives
Making Msmen Filled with Chicken healthier doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. These modifications maintain the authentic taste while boosting nutritional value and accommodating various dietary preferences.
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (500g) | Whole wheat flour (400g) + almond flour (100g) | Higher fiber, protein, and healthy fats |
| Chicken thighs (550g) | Chicken breast (450g) or lean ground turkey | Lower saturated fat, fewer calories |
| Sunflower oil | Olive oil or avocado oil | Better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio |
| Regular cheese | Low-fat mozzarella or goat cheese | Reduced calories, easier digestion |
| Honey (12g) | Maple syrup or date paste | Lower glycemic index, additional minerals |
| Yellow onion | Red onion + bell peppers | Higher antioxidants, more vitamins |
For those following specific dietary plans, consider these adaptations: substitute the flour blend with gluten-free alternatives like chickpea flour mixed with tapioca starch for celiac-friendly versions. Vegetarians can replace chicken with seasoned lentils or crumbled tofu, while maintaining the same spice profile.
Explore more healthy recipe ideas here to discover additional ways to transform traditional dishes into nutritious alternatives without compromising on taste.
Serving Suggestions
Traditional Moroccan Style: Serve your Msmen Filled with Chicken alongside a fresh mint tea and a simple salad of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. This combination balances the rich, savory flavors of the msmen with refreshing elements that cleanse the palate between bites.
Modern Fusion Approach: Transform this dish into a complete meal by serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with harissa and fresh herbs, accompanied by roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. The cooling yogurt sauce provides a perfect contrast to the warm spices while adding probiotics and protein.
Casual Entertaining: Cut the msmen into smaller triangular pieces and serve as an appetizer or party food alongside other Middle Eastern mezze items like hummus, baba ganoush, and olives. This presentation makes the dish more social and allows guests to sample various flavors throughout the evening.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Rushing the Dough Resting Process: The most critical error when making Msmen Filled with Chicken is not allowing adequate resting time for the dough. This resting period allows gluten to relax, making the dough more pliable and easier to stretch thin. Skipping or shortening this step results in tough, chewy msmen that lack the characteristic flaky layers that make this dish special.
Overfilling with Chicken Mixture: Adding too much filling causes the dough to tear during folding and cooking, leading to leakage and uneven cooking. Use approximately 3-4 tablespoons of chicken mixture per msmen, ensuring you can still seal the edges properly. The filling should enhance the dish without overwhelming the delicate dough structure.
Cooking at Incorrect Temperature: Using heat that’s too high causes the exterior to brown too quickly while leaving the interior undercooked, while too low heat results in dry, tough msmen. Maintain medium heat throughout the cooking process, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown color while ensuring the filling heats through completely.
Storing Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked Msmen Filled with Chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Layer parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking and maintain their texture. When ready to eat, reheat in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side to restore crispiness, avoiding microwaving which makes them soggy.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, wrap individual msmen tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Label with the date and contents for easy identification. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or cook directly from frozen by adding 2-3 extra minutes to the reheating time.
Make-Ahead Assembly: Prepare the dough and chicken filling separately up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Assemble the msmen just before cooking for best results, as pre-assembled pieces can become soggy. This approach allows you to enjoy fresh, crispy msmen with minimal last-minute preparation.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Msmen Filled with Chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs in Msmen Filled with Chicken, though the texture will be slightly different. Chicken breast tends to be leaner and can become dry if overcooked, so reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes and consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil to maintain moisture. The flavor will be milder, so you might want to increase the spice quantities slightly.
Q: How thin should I roll the dough for Msmen Filled with Chicken?
A: The dough for Msmen Filled with Chicken should be rolled almost paper-thin – thin enough that you can nearly see through it but not so thin that it tears easily. This typically means rolling it to about 1-2mm thickness. If the dough springs back while rolling, let it rest for another 10-15 minutes to relax the gluten further.
Q: What can I substitute for ras el hanout in Msmen Filled with Chicken?
A: If you can’t find ras el hanout for your Msmen Filled with Chicken, create a substitute by mixing 1 teaspoon each of cumin and coriander, ½ teaspoon each of cinnamon and paprika, and ¼ teaspoon each of cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. While not identical, this blend captures the warm, complex flavors essential to authentic-tasting msmen.
Q: Can I make Msmen Filled with Chicken ahead of time for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Msmen Filled with Chicken works excellently for meal prep. Cook them completely, let cool, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat in a dry skillet rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy exterior. You can also prepare components separately and assemble fresh msmen throughout the week.
Msmen Filled with Chicken
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Msmen filled with spiced chicken and cheese brings authentic Moroccan street food straight to your kitchen. This golden, flaky flatbread is stuffed with tender, flavorful chicken and melty cheese, creating a comforting yet exotic dish perfect for brunch or dinner. Try this Moroccan-inspired recipe for dinner and enjoy a crispy, savory treat everyone will love. Keywords: recipes for dinner, recipes with chicken, food recipes.
Ingredients
- 500 g flour
- 275 ml water
- 12 g honey
- 6 g baking powder
- 7 g salt
- 5 ml sunflower oil
- 550 g chicken thighs, diced
- 220 g yellow onion, finely chopped
- 10 ml olive oil
- 5 g ras el hanout
- 4 g salt
- 3 g garlic powder
- 3 g cayenne powder
- 2 g turmeric powder
- 1 g dried parsley
- Cheese, to taste
- Sunflower oil, for cooking
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix water and honey until dissolved, then pour into the flour well along with sunflower oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and rest for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet and cook diced onions for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Add diced chicken thighs and season with ras el hanout, salt, garlic powder, cayenne, turmeric, and dried parsley. Cook for 12–15 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Let cool.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal balls. Cover and rest for 1 hour.
- Roll each ball out thinly on an oiled surface. Brush with oil and fold into a square to form layers.
- Place cooled chicken mixture and cheese in the center of each dough square and seal edges.
- Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook each msmen for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Notes
Serve warm with mint tea or a side of harissa for a true Moroccan touch. Perfect for meal prep or sharing with friends.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: recipes for dinner, recipes with chicken, Moroccan street food, crispy msmen
