Name: Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 500 g flour; 7 g salt; 12 g honey; 275 ml water; 6 g baking powder; 5 ml sunflower oil; 220 g yellow onion, chopped; 550 g chicken thighs, finely chopped; 5 g ras el hanout; 2 g turmeric powder; 3 g cayenne powder; 3 g garlic powder; 4 g salt; 1 g dried parsley; 10 ml olive oil; Cheese (quantity as desired for filling slices); Sunflower oil (for greasing and cooking)

Jump to Recipe

If you have a love for flaky, flavorful pastries that combine tender chicken with a subtly spiced crust, then this Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine golden, crisp layers of traditional Moroccan msmen dough enveloping a warm, aromatic chicken filling bursting with fragrant spices like ras el hanout, turmeric, and cayenne. This recipe is a heartfelt celebration of textures and spices wrapped into one satisfying, shareable dish that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.

A close-up of a woman's hand holding a square-shaped flatbread sandwich cut in half. The sandwich has a golden-brown crispy outer layer with some darker brown grilled spots. Inside, there are two visible layers: a melted creamy yellow cheese layer mixed with small green and orange vegetable pieces, and a thicker yellowish filling with chunks of vegetables and herbs. The sandwich rests on more flatbreads with similar golden-brown crispiness on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its deceptively simple yet essential ingredients. Each item has a purpose, whether it’s building the flaky msmen dough or enriching the chicken filling with deep, savory notes. Nothing complicated, but everything thoughtful for maximum flavor and texture.

Flour (500 g): The foundation of our msmen dough, providing structure and that signature chewiness.
Salt (7 g): Enhances the natural flavors and balances the seasoning.
Honey (12 g): Gives a touch of subtle sweetness that helps tenderize the dough.
Water (275 ml): Hydrates the dough, allowing it to be stretched paper-thin.
Baking powder (6 g): Adds a slight lift to the dough’s texture.
Sunflower oil (5 ml for dough, plus extra for shaping and cooking): Keeps the layers delicate and helps achieve that crisp golden finish.
Yellow onion (220 g): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the chicken filling.
Chicken thighs (550 g): Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor once cooked with the spices.
Ras el hanout (5 g): A warm Moroccan spice blend that brings complexity and warmth.
Turmeric powder (2 g): Infuses a vibrant color and earthy aroma to the filling.
Cayenne powder (3 g): Gives just enough heat, perfectly balancing the flavors.
Garlic powder (3 g): Delivers a subtle savory punch.
Dried parsley (1 g): Brightens the chicken mixture with fresh herbal notes.
Olive oil (10 ml): Used to sauté and marry the spices to the chicken.
Cheese: A creamy, melty layer inside each pastry for richness and texture contrast.

How to Make Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by combining the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Create a well in the center and pour in the honey and water. Mix everything together for about 10 to 12 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This kneading time is key to developing the dough’s stretchability. Then, add the sunflower oil and knead for another minute before covering the dough and allowing it to rest for 30 minutes. This rest relaxes the gluten and makes the dough easier to work with.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a frying pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the chopped yellow onions until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add finely chopped chicken thighs along with ras el hanout, turmeric, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt. Cook the mixture for 6 to 7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and fragrant with spices. Stir in dried parsley and remove from heat to cool completely. Cooling the filling is crucial so it doesn’t tear the delicate msmen dough during assembly.

Step 3: Portion and Rest the Dough Balls

Divide the rested dough into 9 equal portions, each about 85 grams, and roll them into smooth balls. Grease your hands with oil to prevent sticking, then flatten each ball on an oiled work surface. Cover and let rest for another 30 minutes. This extra rest allows the dough to relax even more, which makes stretching it thin much easier.

Step 4: Stretch and Fill the Msmen

On a well-oiled surface, gently stretch each dough ball with your fingertips into a thin sheet about 38 by 33 centimeters. The key is to be patient and keep your hands lightly greased to avoid tearing the dough. Use a pizza cutter to make four slight cuts near the edges, dividing the dough into three sections, which helps with folding. Place a slice of cheese on the dough, then spoon on a generous portion of the cooled chicken filling before folding the dough from left to right, enclosing the filling snugly inside.

Step 5: Cook the Pastries

Transfer the stuffed msmen onto parchment paper and fry them in a preheated pan over medium heat with a bit of sunflower oil. Cook slowly until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and cook the other side until equally crisp and beautifully browned. The layering of the dough should yield a crispy outside with a tender, flaky interior surrounding the luscious chicken and melting cheese inside.

How to Serve Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe

Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of a simple garlic yogurt sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice adds a lovely tang that complements the rich chicken filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken-Stuffed Msmen with a bright mixed green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or a simple chickpea salad with cumin and paprika also make fantastic companions, turning this into a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the cooked msmen into smaller bite-sized squares to serve as appetizers at a party. Alternatively, stack several freshly made pastries and wrap them together in parchment paper for a casual, portable lunch option that’s perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining the crispy texture with a quick reheat.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cooked pastries cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 1 month, perfect for enjoying later without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy the msmen again, reheat them gently in a dry frying pan over medium heat or in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving to keep them from turning soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely, though chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, breast can be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook it so it stays tender.

What if I don’t have ras el hanout? Can I substitute it?

If you don’t have ras el hanout, try a mix of warm spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg for a close flavor profile.

Do I need special oil for shaping the dough?

Not at all, sunflower oil works perfectly fine for greasing your hands and the work surface. Any neutral oil with a mild flavor will do.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the fridge for up to 24 hours before resting and stretching it. Just let it come to room temperature before working it.

Is the cheese optional?

The cheese adds a delightful creamy layer and extra richness, but if you want a lighter or dairy-free version, feel free to omit it. The spiced chicken filling is flavorful enough on its own.

Final Thoughts

Making this Chicken-Stuffed Msmen Pastry Recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about embracing a slice of Moroccan culinary magic. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flaky texture and bold, comforting flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re sharing it with family or impressing friends, this recipe holds a special place at the table, waiting for you to try it and make it your own.