This classic Moroccan dish is a rich and flavorful blend of spices, preserved lemons, and olives. It’s traditionally cooked in a tagine, which enhances the flavors by slow-cooking the ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Tagine
- 4-6 chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks work best)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 preserved lemons, quartered (or 1 fresh lemon, thinly sliced if unavailable)
- 1 cup green or purple olives
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken stock or water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley and cilantro, chopped
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a sweet touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of saffron threads (optional)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with spices (turmeric, ginger, paprika, cinnamon, pepper, salt, and saffron if using).
- Add minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss well to coat.
- Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
2. Sauté the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent.
3. Arrange the Tagine
- Place the marinated chicken on top of the onions in the tagine.
- Add preserved lemons and olives around the chicken.
- Pour chicken stock or water into the pot.
4. Cook Slowly
- Cover the tagine (or pot) and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 45-60 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley and cilantro over the dish before serving.
- Serve hot with Moroccan bread (khobz) or couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for Authentic Flavor
- Use a Tagine: If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven or heavy skillet with a lid works well.
- Balance Savory and Sweet: Add a handful of prunes or raisins if you like a sweeter tagine.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of Moroccan salad or mint tea.
Enjoy this traditional and comforting Moroccan chicken tagine!
