How long can I store leftovers?

Bastilla can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, wrapped in foil.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance. Assemble and bake the day you plan to serve it.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs offer a richer flavor and remain more tender.

Is there a substitute for phyllo dough?

You may use puff pastry in a pinch, but the texture will differ.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free phyllo dough to accommodate dietary needs.

Authentic Moroccan Chicken Bastilla with Phyllo and Almonds

Name: Authentic Moroccan Chicken Bastilla with Phyllo and Almonds
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 large onion; 3 cloves garlic; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp saffron threads; Salt and pepper; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro; 1 cup blanched almonds; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 8 sheets phyllo dough; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 eggs; 2 tbsp fresh parsley

A savory-sweet Moroccan pastry dish

This traditional Moroccan chicken pie features layers of spiced chicken, almonds, and phyllo dough, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.

2 h 45 min
6
Advanced

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

4 chicken thighs

bone-in and skin-on

1 large onion

finely chopped

3 cloves garlic

minced

1 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp turmeric

1/2 tsp saffron threads

Salt and pepper

to taste

1/4 cup fresh cilantro

chopped

For the Almond Mixture

1 cup blanched almonds

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Phyllo Layers

8 sheets phyllo dough

1/2 cup unsalted butter

melted

For the Egg Mixture

4 eggs

lightly beaten

2 tbsp fresh parsley

chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Mix the spice paste

Combine garlic, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, saffron, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Rub the chicken

Rub the mixture over the chicken thighs.

Chill

Let marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.

Preparing the Almond Mixture

Toast almonds

Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden.

Grind mixture

Allow to cool, then pulse in a food processor with powdered sugar and cinnamon until finely ground.

Set aside

Set aside the almond mixture.

Phyllo Handling Tips

Handle the phyllo gently

Ensure the phyllo dough is handled gently to avoid ripping.

Cover unused phyllo with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out.

Cooking Process

Chicken Filling

Sauté onions until translucent, add marinated chicken and cook until browned; remove the chicken and shred once cool.

Egg Mixture

In the same pan, stir eggs with the remaining sauce until slightly set, then mix with shredded chicken and parsley.

Assembling

Layer phyllo sheets, buttering each layer, add chicken filling, sprinkle almond mixture, close with phyllo, and butter the top.

Plating & Serving