Many of us like to stick to what we know. And while this has its benefits, it also has its downsides as well. Our go-to staple items are simple to make, low stress, and guaranteed to work out. But when we repeat the same meals over and over food tends to get, well... boring. The enjoyment factor decreases and food begins to feel like a chore. It is so incredibly important that we enjoy our food. In fact, an essential part of normalizing eating patterns includes tuning into our preferences, finding pleasure in eating, and acknowledging all of the wonderful things about food other than its nutritional function.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone in the kitchen can be scary, but it can also help you develop more intimacy with your food. Creating new routines, not based in safety and rigidity, can facilitate the change you wish to see in your relationship to food. One of the best and easiest ways to get creative in the kitchen is through the use of herbs and spices. You can take something simple, like baked chicken for example, and quickly transform it into a brand new dish, full of flavor and enjoyment! Break out of your routine with this insanely simple and mouthwatering recipe for Moroccan chicken thighs! It is delicious paired with tabbouleh, sweet potatoes, or a warm pita and hummus. Enjoy!
Moroccan Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
¼ cup olive oil
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
1 (20-ounce) package boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Directions:
In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients, except chicken.
Transfer mixture to a gallon ziplock bag or container with a lid. Add chicken and mix to coat.
Seal and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 1-8 hours.
When you are ready to cook them, preheat the oven on high (broil).
Remove chicken from marinade, discarding any leftover marinade.
Broil chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked. *I recommend using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to assure that it is done. (Chicken is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F)
Enjoy!