If you’ve ever craved that perfect combination of crispy, flaky flatbread wrapped around a rich, savory filling, then you’re in for a treat with this Msmen Filled with Spiced Chicken and Cheese Recipe. I absolutely love how this recipe brings together tender Moroccan-spiced chicken and melty cheese nestled inside layers of buttery dough—it’s like a little package of comfort and spice. Whether you’re new to msmen or a seasoned fan, this recipe will have you making these delightful stuffed pancakes like a pro in no time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Msmen Filled with Spiced Chicken and Cheese Recipe plays a crucial role—from the flour that forms those flaky layers to the carefully blended spices infusing the chicken with warmth. I find using fresh spices really elevates the flavor, so don’t skimp there!

• Flour: Opt for all-purpose flour; it creates just the right chew and structure for the msmen dough.
• Water: Lukewarm water helps the dough come together smoothly without feeling sticky.
• Honey: Adds a subtle touch of sweetness that balances the spices in the chicken filling.
• Baking powder: Gives a slight rise to the dough, helping those layers puff up beautifully when cooked.
• Salt: Essential for flavor balance both in dough and filling.
• Sunflower oil: Great for dough pliability and for cooking the msmen, as it has a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
• Chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, perfect for the filling.
• Yellow onion: Finely chopped and sautéed tender, it adds sweetness and depth.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing onions and chicken; I love its fruity richness here.
• Ras el hanout: This Moroccan spice blend is the heart of the filling’s flavor—if you can’t find it, mix cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom as a substitute.
• Garlic powder, cayenne powder, turmeric powder, dried parsley: These spices layer complexity, color, and heat into the chicken.
• Cheese: Use a mild melting cheese like mozzarella or a Moroccan Jben if you can get it; it melts wonderfully inside the msmen.

Variations

Cooking is all about making things your own! I’ve played around with this Msmen Filled with Spiced Chicken and Cheese Recipe quite a bit, and it’s super rewarding to customize depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preference.

• Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken for spiced roasted vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty, meat-free filling. My family actually loved this version for Meatless Mondays!
• Spice level: If you prefer milder food, cut back on cayenne or skip it entirely—the ras el hanout gives plenty of flavor without overpowering heat.
• Cheese choices: Experiment with cheeses like halloumi for a saltier bite or ricotta for creaminess—I often double the cheese because, why not?
• Gluten-free tweak: I haven’t perfected a gluten-free dough version, but I’ve heard using chickpea flour blends can work; just be prepared for a different texture.

How to Make Msmen Filled with Spiced Chicken and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Make and Rest the Dough

Start by whisking together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Then, mix the water and honey until the honey dissolves nicely—that little sweetness really balances the spices later! Pour this liquid mix into the flour well along with sunflower oil and begin mixing until a rough dough forms. This is a bit sticky at first, but don’t worry. Knead it on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it feels smooth, elastic, and springy—this kneading step is key for those lovely layers. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes; this rest helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the Spiced Chicken Filling

While the dough is resting, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they turn translucent and soft. Then, toss in the diced chicken thighs and season generously with ras el hanout, salt, garlic powder, cayenne, turmeric, and dried parsley. I like to add a pinch more ras el hanout than the recipe calls for because I adore its warm, complex flavor. Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Once done, set the filling aside to cool completely—this makes it much easier to handle when filling the msmen.

Step 3: Divide and Layer Your Dough

Once rested, divide your dough into 6 equal balls. Cover them again to avoid drying out and let rest for an additional hour – yes, patience is key here for that perfect dough texture! After the second rest, take each ball and roll it out thinly on a surface lightly greased with sunflower oil. Brush the surface of each rolled dough with more oil, then fold it into a neat square to create those signature layered pockets that msmen is known for. This layering is what gives the crispy, flaky texture, so don’t rush it!

Step 4: Fill and Seal Your Msmen

Place a generous spoonful of the cooled chicken mixture right in the center of each dough square, then add plenty of cheese on top (I love gooey cheese here!). Carefully fold and seal all the edges to encase the filling fully—this keeps everything from spilling out during cooking. If the dough feels a bit dry at the edges, dampen with a few drops of water to help it stick better.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden and Crispy

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it with sunflower oil. Place each stuffed msmen in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crisp. You’ll know it’s perfect when you hear that gentle sizzle and see the layers puffing slightly. Once done, transfer to a wire rack to avoid sogginess. These are best enjoyed warm, so try not to let them cool too much before digging in!

How to Serve Msmen Filled with Spiced Chicken and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top right before serving—it adds a burst of fresh color and brightness that complements the rich filling. A drizzle of lemon juice or a side of harissa gives it a nice kick if you like a little extra heat. Mint leaves also make a refreshing accompaniment, especially alongside traditional Moroccan mint tea.

Side Dishes

My favorite side dishes are simple and fresh: a cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness. Sometimes I serve with a bowl of lentil soup or a chilled yogurt dip with garlic and herbs—it balances the spices perfectly and adds a cooling touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, I like to slice the msmen into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter surrounded by small bowls of assorted dips like harissa, tzatziki, and a tangy chimichurri. It makes for a fun, interactive appetizer spread that everyone can enjoy while chatting and sipping tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, you can store leftover stuffed msmen in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend layering parchment paper between to prevent sticking. Reheating them retains much of that crispness if done right!

Freezing

Freezing works surprisingly well with this recipe—just wrap each msmen tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. I’ve frozen them for up to a month, and they thaw overnight in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prep or last-minute snacks.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using a skillet over low heat with a little oil instead of a microwave. This method revives the crispy layers without sogginess. Heat gently for a few minutes per side until warmed through and crisped—just like freshly made!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Msmen Filled with Spiced Chicken and Cheese Recipe has quickly become a favorite in my house because it combines so many wonderful textures and flavors in one handheld bite. It’s one of those recipes that feels special enough for company but simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner. If you’re looking to impress your friends or add a little Moroccan magic to your cooking routine, I highly recommend giving this a go—you’ll enjoy the process as much as the delicious results!

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