Welcome to a flavorful journey with our Keto Instant Pot Moroccan Lemon Olive Chicken. This dish brings together the exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine with the speed and convenience of an Instant Pot, all while staying true to your keto lifestyle. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking to spice up their dinner routine with a low-carb, high-flavor option that rescues them from the mundane.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup green olives, pitted
- 1 preserved lemon, chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Cilantro, for garnish
Equipments
- Instant Pot
- Mixing Bowls
- Knife and Cutting Board
How to Make Keto Instant Pot Moroccan Lemon Olive Chicken – Step By Step
Step 1:
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and prepping your chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear in the Instant Pot. This step is essential as it helps lock in juices and enhances the flavor profile.
Step 2:
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function, adding olive oil and allowing it to heat up. Once hot, add chicken thighs skin-side down, cooking until the skin becomes golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside. This browning adds a layer of rich, complex flavor to your dish.
Step 3:
Without cleaning the pot, add sliced onions and minced garlic into the leftover drippings. Sauté until onions become translucent, releasing their sweet aroma and laying a flavorful foundation for the dish.
Step 4:
Stir in your spices: cumin, ginger, turmeric, and paprika. These spices will bloom in the hot oil, releasing aromatic scents and imparting their distinct Moroccan flavors, a hallmark of this recipe.
Step 5:
Deglaze the pot by pouring in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Stir in chopped preserved lemons and olives, which introduce a zesty and briny contrast to the rich spices, balancing the dish beautifully.
Step 6:
Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the olive and lemon mixture. This ensures even cooking and infuses the chicken with the vibrant Moroccan flavors.
Step 7:
Seal your Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes before opening the valve. This step ensures the chicken is tender and fully infused with flavors.
How to Serve Keto Instant Pot Moroccan Lemon Olive Chicken
Serve this fragrant chicken dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro. It pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice or a simple green salad, making it a standout meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For best results, use bone-in chicken thighs as they stay moist during cooking. To save time, pre-chop the spices and lemons, and measure your ingredients before starting.
Boost Your Protein: Elevating the Moroccan Chicken Adventure
If you’re looking to up the protein intake, consider adding chickpeas (garbanzo beans) if not strictly keto, or sprinkle some hemp seeds or chia seeds over the finished dish for an extra protein punch.
Keeping It Low Carb: A Culinary Charm
This dish is inherently low-carb, but for those counting every gram, ensure that you use extra-virgin olive oil and double-check all spice blends for added sugars.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but the cooking time may vary as breasts can dry out faster.
- What if I don’t have preserved lemons? You can use fresh lemon zest and juice as a substitute.
- Is this recipe spicy? It is flavorful yet mild; add chili flakes for heat if desired.
- Can I prepare this recipe without an Instant Pot? Yes, use a regular pot on the stove and simmer for a longer period.
Your Next Favorite Keto Dish Awaits
This Keto Instant Pot Moroccan Lemon Olive Chicken is a delightful blend of exotic flavors and effortless cooking. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it brings sophistication to your keto meal plan. Don’t keep this delicious secret to yourself! Share the recipe with friends, comment on your experience, and enjoy the taste of Morocco at your own table.