Name: Moroccan Cigar Appetizer Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 cup shallots, thinly sliced (approximately 4 medium shallots); 3/4 cup California Prunes, finely chopped; 1 rotisserie chicken, meat removed and chopped well (3-4 cups); 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp cumin; 2 tsp paprika; 1 ½ tsp turmeric; ¼ tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp freshly grated ginger; Kosher salt and pepper to taste; 1 ½ cups water; Grain Free tortillas, 14-16 (both almond flour and cassava flour work great); Avocado oil for frying, enough to fill skillet 1-1.25 inches deep; 2 tbsp Italian parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that bursts with bold, exotic flavors and crispy, satisfying texture, then you’re going to love this Moroccan Cigar Appetizer. These golden, cigar-shaped bites are packed with a delightful mixture of tender chicken, sweet California prunes, and an aromatic blend of Moroccan spices that play beautifully together. Wrapped in grain-free tortillas and fried to perfection, this appetizer is the perfect conversation starter for your next gathering or an indulgent treat to enjoy with close friends. The Moroccan Cigar Appetizer is not only a feast for the taste buds, but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of North African culinary magic into your kitchen.*

Moroccan Cigar Appetizer Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Moroccan Cigar Appetizer relies on a simple yet thoughtfully curated list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a balance of flavors and textures—from the richness of olive oil and tender rotisserie chicken to the sweet surprise of chopped prunes and the smoky warmth of the spices. These essentials come together effortlessly to make a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.

3 tbsp olive oil, divided: Provides a rich, fruity base for sautéing and warming tortillas.
1 cup shallots, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and subtle depth when softened.
3/4 cup California Prunes, finely chopped: Offers natural sweetness and a slightly jammy texture that complements the spices.
1 rotisserie chicken, meat removed and chopped well (3-4 cups): The star protein, tender and perfect for soaking up the fragrant spice mixture.
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Delivers that irresistible punch of garlic flavor that lifts the entire dish.
1 tbsp cumin: Adds earthy, warm tones iconic in Moroccan cuisine.
2 tsp paprika: Brings smoky-sweet notes and a vibrant red hue.
1 ½ tsp turmeric: This golden spice brightens the flavor and lends beautiful color.
¼ tsp cinnamon: Provides a subtle, aromatic sweetness that rounds out the spices.
1 tsp freshly grated ginger: Injects fresh zing and warmth, balancing the sweet and savory.
Kosher salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing everything together.
1 ½ cups water: Used to simmer the prune and spice mixture to a luscious consistency.
Grain-free tortillas (14-16): Both almond flour and cassava flour options work wonderfully as a tortilla base that holds the cigar shape.
Avocado oil for frying: A neutral high-heat oil perfect for getting the wrappers crisp without overpowering flavors.
2 tbsp Italian parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch as a garnish to brighten the finished dish.

How to Make Moroccan Cigar Appetizer

Step 1: Sauté the Shallots

Begin by heating a medium skillet over medium heat and adding 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss in the thinly sliced shallots and sauté them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want them soft and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness but not browning too much. This step creates the perfect flavor base for the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Prune and Spice Mixture

Next, stir in the chopped California prunes, adding a splash more oil if needed. Incorporate all the dry spices—cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon—along with sliced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook down until slightly thickened and the prunes become tender and jammy, which locks in a beautiful sweet-savory contrast.

Step 3: Combine with Chicken

Transfer the chopped rotisserie chicken to a large bowl and let the prune and spice mixture cool a bit before mixing it in. Stir thoroughly so every morsel of chicken is evenly coated with that spiced prune blend. Taste the filling and season with kosher salt and pepper according to your preference. This filling is the heart of the Moroccan Cigar Appetizer, carrying all those intricate layers of flavor.

Step 4: Warm the Grain-Free Tortillas

Grain-free tortillas need a little TLC to become pliable and easy to roll. Heat another skillet over medium-low and warm each tortilla for around 20 seconds on each side, using a light spritz or brush of olive or avocado oil. This softens them just enough to roll without cracking—making your rolling process smooth and worry-free.

Step 5: Roll the Cigars

Working in small batches, spoon about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto the edge of each warmed tortilla closest to you. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down on your workspace. Traditional cigars are sealed on all sides, but when using grain-free tortillas, it’s best to tuck the filling in at either end without forcing a tight seal, as these tortillas can crack.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden and Crispy

Preheat a skillet with at least 1 ¼ inches of avocado oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In batches of three, lower the cigars seam-side down into the hot oil using tongs. Let them fry undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes until the tortillas have turned a gorgeous golden brown. Flip carefully and fry the other sides until crispy all around. This frying step builds that irresistible crunchy texture that makes the Moroccan Cigar Appetizer an irresistible treat.

Step 7: Keep Warm in the Oven

Set up a rack over a sheet tray and transfer the cooked cigars there as they come out of the pan. Keep them warm in the oven set to 200 degrees Fahrenheit while you cook the rest. This way, every cigar stays perfectly heated and crisp until you’re ready to serve.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

To finish, slice each Moroccan Cigar Appetizer on a diagonal and arrange them on a platter with your favorite dipping sauces. Sprinkle finely chopped Italian parsley on top to add a pop of freshness and color. Now you’re ready to wow your guests or treat yourself to something truly special!

How to Serve Moroccan Cigar Appetizer

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped Italian parsley is classic and adds a lovely herbal brightness that cuts through the rich, fried exterior. You can also add a dash of sumac or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing that complements the smoky spice profile perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve these Moroccan Cigars with cooling cucumber yogurt dip or a zesty harissa sauce for pleasant contrasts. A fresh salad with chopped mint, tomatoes, and cucumber works beautifully alongside, offering a refreshing counterbalance. Pairing with light sides enhances the full experience without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming appetizer platter, arrange the cigars standing upright in a small jar or lean them neatly against a bowl of dipping sauce. Adding colorful edible flowers or stacking on a rustic wooden board can turn this simple dish into a stunning presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of the Moroccan Cigar Appetizer, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 2 to 3 days without losing too much crispness, though it’s best to enjoy them fresh whenever possible.

Freezing

You can freeze the rolled but uncooked cigars by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll hold up well for up to a month. Fry them straight from frozen, just adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Moroccan Cigar Appetizer in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through, to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy and diminish the texture.

FAQs

Can I make the filling vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the rotisserie chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or even spiced roasted vegetables. Adjust the seasoning and moisture levels accordingly for the best texture.

Are there alternatives to grain-free tortillas?

Yes, traditional phyllo dough or thin spring roll wrappers can be used if you’re not restricted by grain-free diets. They’ll crisp up nicely and hold the filling just as well.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Harissa, garlic yogurt sauce, tahini, or a simple mint chutney complement the Moroccan Cigar Appetizer perfectly, enhancing the rich and spicy flavors.

Can these be baked instead of fried?

For a lighter version, you can bake the rolled cigars at 400 degrees Fahrenheit on a greased baking sheet for about 15–20 minutes until crisp, turning once. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy is this appetizer?

The spice blend is fragrant but mild, focusing more on warmth and earthiness than heat. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or chopped chili if you like more kick.

Final Thoughts

There is just something so satisfying about biting into a perfectly crisp Moroccan Cigar Appetizer—the sweet and savory filling, the crisp tortilla, and the aromatic spices all coming together flawlessly. It’s a dish that invites sharing and celebration, and once you try it, I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to appetizers for entertaining or indulging yourself. Give it a whirl and bring a little Moroccan sunshine to your table!

Moroccan Cigar Appetizer Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 14–16 Moroccan Cigars (approximately 7–8 servings, 2 cigars per serving) 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Moroccan Cigar Appetizers are crispy, flavorful rolls filled with a savory mixture of rotisserie chicken, sweet California prunes, and aromatic Moroccan spices. Wrapped in pliable grain-free tortillas and fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect party appetizer or snack that’s both gluten-free and bursting with exotic flavor.

Instructions

Sauté Shallots: Preheat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1-2 tbsp of olive oil and sauté the sliced shallots until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook Prunes and Spices: Add the chopped California prunes to the pan along with additional oil if needed. Stir in the cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, and water. Bring to a low simmer and cook until the mixture reduces slightly and the prunes become soft and jammy.
Combine with Chicken: Place chopped chicken in a large bowl. Allow the prune and spice mixture to cool slightly, then add it to the chicken. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Warm Tortillas: Preheat a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Using olive oil or avocado oil spray, warm the grain-free tortillas for about 20 seconds on each side until pliable enough to roll without cracking.
Roll the Cigars: Working in batches, place about 2-3 tbsp of the chicken mixture on the end of the tortilla closest to you. Tightly roll the tortilla around the filling, tucking in the ends without fully sealing as grain-free tortillas crack easily. Place each roll seam side down.
Heat Oil for Frying: Preheat a medium skillet filled with 1 ¼ inches of avocado or neutral high-heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Also preheat the oven to 200°F to keep cigars warm after frying.
Fry the Cigars: Carefully add 3 cigars seam-side down at a time into the hot oil using tongs. Fry for 1-2 minutes on the first side until golden and crispy, then rotate to cook the other sides evenly.
Keep Warm: Remove the fried cigars and place them on a rack over a sheet tray. Keep them warm in the preheated oven while frying the remaining batches.
Serve: Cut the cigars in half diagonally, arrange on a serving tray, garnish with chopped Italian parsley, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Using grain-free tortillas such as almond or cassava flour tortillas prevents gluten, but they are more delicate; warming them helps prevent cracking while rolling.
The prunes add a subtle sweetness that balances the spices and savory chicken flavor.
Avocado oil is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
You can adjust spices according to heat preference or substitute rotisserie chicken with cooked shredded chicken breast for a homemade version.
Keep cooked cigars warm in the oven on a rack to maintain crispiness before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Sauteing, Simmering, Frying
Cuisine: Moroccan