Inspired by the warm flavors of North African cuisine, this dish pairs seasoned chicken thighs with jammy onions, garlic, and a sticky pomegranate reduction. The thighs are seasoned with ras el hanout — a fragrant blend of warm spices like cinnamon and cumin — and are seared skin side down until crisp, keeping the meat juicy and tender. A pomegranate juice reduction adds a fruity and refreshing tartness that balances the rich, schmaltzy chicken with sweet-and-sour notes. Don’t skip adding the pomegranate arils — they bring crunch and a burst of brightness in every bite. Serve over rice or couscous for a satisfying weeknight meal.
What is ras el hanout?
Ras el hanout is a spice blend that combines a variety of spices such as cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It’s a common ingredient in North African cuisine, particularly in Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. You can find it in the spice aisle at most grocery stores.
What’s the trick to crispy chicken thighs every time?
The trick to achieving ultra-crispy skin on chicken thighs is to season them with salt, which helps draw out moisture, and sear them skin side down in a hot skillet. Cooking them skin- ide down protects the meat from overcooking while rendering the fat and crisping the skin. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan — doing so can cause the thighs to steam instead of sear.
Notes from the Food & Wine Test Kitchen
Reducing the pomegranate juice concentrates its flavor and sugars, resulting in a syrupy consistency that adds boldness to the sauce. To track the reduction, measure 2 cups of juice in a liquid measuring cup, and keep it nearby. As the juice reduces, pour it back into the measuring cup to check the volume — then return it to the pan if it needs more time. It’s an easy way to monitor how much liquid has evaporated and how much longer to cook it.
Suggested pairing
Try a spicy, powerful red, such as Camins 2 Dreams Donnachadh Vineyard Syrah, with this vibrant, fruity chicken dish.
“Camins 2 Dreams Syrah is one of my all-time favorite wines, with its full-bodied flavor, deep purple color, and aromas of white pepper, violets, and lavender. This wine’s spicy finish complements the warmth of the ras el hanout rub, which makes this chicken anything but ordinary. And the tangy sweetness of the pomegranate juice really pops when paired with this Syrah.” —Rose Previte, Maydān, Washington, D.C.; cofounder of Go There Wines
Make ahead
Store leftover sauce and chicken in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.
