If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely must try this Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe. This delightful creation wraps tender, spiced chicken in a perfectly golden almond flour crust, delivering a rich tapestry of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika in every bite. It’s a glorious fusion of Middle Eastern flavors that keeps it low carb and keto-friendly, making it a wholesome comfort food you’ll revisit time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays a crucial role from the aromatic spices to the rich, melty fillings.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Tender, protein-packed base that absorbs all the spices beautifully.
- 1/2 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the filling with bold, savory notes.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps bring the filling together with a silky consistency.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and imparting a gentle fruity richness.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: The star spice giving that authentic Moroccan earthiness.
- 1 tsp ground coriander: Adds a fresh, citrusy warmth.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Offers mild smokiness and beautiful hue.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: A surprise layer of cozy sweetness balanced with spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for uplifting all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro: Brightens the filling with fresh herbal notes.
- 2 cups almond flour: Forms the gluten-free, grain-free crust that’s nutty and tender.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey, melty binding for the crust.
- 3 oz cream cheese: Adds creaminess and moisture to the crust dough.
- 1 egg: Helps bring everything together with structure and richness.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the crust a light, tender rise.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Intensifies the savory flavor in the crust.
- Salt to taste: To balance and enhance the crust’s flavors.
How to Make Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Chicken Filling
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently until the liquid thickens and the spices meld into every morsel of chicken, about 8–10 minutes. Finally, mix in the chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh burst of herbaceous flavor.
Step 2: Make the Almond Flour Cheese Crust
While the filling is simmering, melt the mozzarella and cream cheese together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth and gooey. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Pour in the melted cheese mixture and add the egg. Stir everything together until a dough forms; it will be slightly sticky but cohesive. This unique crust brings a soft, cheesy texture that perfectly complements the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a pie dish to prevent sticking. Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish, creating a sturdy base. Spread the spiced chicken filling over this crust layer, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Finally, gently press the remaining dough on top to seal the pie. If you want, score the top lightly for a decorative touch and to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust turns a lovely golden brown and the filling bubbles slightly around the edges. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning. Once baked, let the pie rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set nicely.
How to Serve Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top right before serving. A dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm spices, making every bite a delicious adventure.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables with a hint of cumin or a simple cucumber and tomato salad will complement the Middle Eastern-inspired flavors perfectly without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe into individual servings by using ramekins or small pie tins. This makes it perfect for dinner parties or family dinners where everyone can enjoy their own personal pie. You might also garnish with toasted almonds or sprinkle some sumac atop for an extra flair of Moroccan authenticity and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more delicious. Just cover it well to prevent the crust from drying out.
Freezing
This pie freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe back to life, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the crust soggy. A quick reheat in a toaster oven works beautifully too.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for the crust?
While this recipe specifically calls for almond flour to keep the crust low carb and gluten-free, you could experiment with other nut flours like hazelnut or pecan for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind the texture and binding could change slightly.
Is this Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This pie freezes very well when properly wrapped, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Just thaw it overnight before reheating to enjoy the flavors and texture at their best.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, feel free to toss in finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic to soften before adding the chicken and spices for an even heartier pie.
What can I use instead of shredded chicken?
If you want to switch things up, cooked shredded turkey or even slow-cooked lamb make excellent alternatives. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the different meat.
Is the crust dairy-free without the cheese?
The cheese is key to the crust’s texture and flavor in this Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe, so removing it would change the crust structure. However, you can try a dairy-free cheese alternative if you need to avoid dairy, though results might vary.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe enough for anyone who loves food that comforts the soul without compromising on flavor or health. It’s a fantastic way to bring in those vibrant Moroccan spices wrapped up in a luscious, cheesy crust. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or treating your friends, it’s sure to be a hit. So go ahead, dive into this wonderful pie and savor each delicious, spiced bite!
Print
Rustic Moroccan Chicken Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Low Carb Moroccan Chicken Pie features tender spiced chicken wrapped in a savory almond flour crust, infused with warm Middle Eastern spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon. It is a flavorful, gluten-free, and keto-friendly dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro
Crust
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 oz cream cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Cook Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Prepare Filling: Add the cooked shredded chicken to the skillet along with 1/2 cup chicken broth, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley or cilantro. Simmer the mixture until the liquid reduces and the filling thickens slightly.
- Make Crust Dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the shredded mozzarella cheese and cream cheese together until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt. Mix the melted cheese mixture with the almond flour mixture, then add 1 beaten egg and stir to form a dough.
- Assemble Pie: Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of a pie dish to form the crust. Spoon the prepared chicken filling over the crust, then cover with the remaining dough, pressing it gently on top to seal the pie.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- Add olives, lemon zest, or spices like turmeric to the filling for extra flavor variations.
- This pie can be made ahead of time and frozen for convenient later meals.
- Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save cooking time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
