Jackie Kennedy’s Spiced Chicken Copycat Recipe

Jackie Kennedy’s Spiced Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish inspired by the classic Mediterranean flavors that Jackie herself loved. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a mixture of yogurt, cumin, coriander, and cardamom, creating a mildly spiced, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for grilling. The yogurt-based marinade not only infuses the chicken with rich, warm spices but also tenderizes it, making each bite juicy and full of flavor. Grilled to perfection, this spiced chicken is an easy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or outdoor gatherings.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

What makes Jackie Kennedy’s Spiced Chicken so special is its combination of savory spices and the creamy yogurt marinade. The spices—cumin, coriander, and cardamom—add a warm, aromatic complexity to the chicken, while the yogurt ensures it stays moist and tender during grilling. It’s a healthy, flavorful option that’s easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, simple meal with a touch of elegance.

What Is Jackie Kennedy’s Spiced Chicken?

Jackie Kennedy’s Spiced Chicken is a grilled chicken recipe where chicken pieces are marinated in a yogurt mixture seasoned with ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, and garlic. The yogurt not only imparts a tangy creaminess to the chicken but also helps the spices penetrate the meat, creating a flavorful and tender dish. After marinating, the chicken is grilled until perfectly cooked, making it a healthy and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare for family or guests.

Cooking Tips

• Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in pieces of chicken, such as thighs or quarters, work best for this recipe, as they stay moist and flavorful during grilling. If you prefer boneless chicken, make sure to adjust the grilling time to avoid overcooking.
• Marinate the chicken well: Let the chicken marinate for at least 3 hours to allow the spices to infuse the meat. If you have more time, marinating it overnight will deepen the flavor.
• Grill carefully: The yogurt marinade helps keep the chicken moist, but be careful not to overcook it. Grill the chicken over medium heat, and check for doneness with a meat thermometer (the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety).
• Customize the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cumin, coriander, or cardamom according to your preference. You can also add a bit of chili powder for a little extra heat if you like spicy food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While bone-in chicken works best for grilling, you can substitute with boneless chicken if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time since boneless pieces cook faster.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to cover the chicken and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven if grilling is not an option. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How to Store

Store any leftover spiced chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

How to Freeze

To freeze the marinated chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and grill as usual.

Ingredients

• 5 ounces plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh ground pepper, to taste
• 3 lbs chicken, quartered

Step-by-Step Instructions