Fragrant Moroccan Chicken Tagine: A Burst of Sunshine on Your Plate

Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemons: A Taste of Morocco

Transport your taste buds to Morocco with this fragrant and flavorful chicken tagine. Tender chicken simmers in a rich, aromatic sauce infused with the briny tang of green olives and the bright, citrusy notes of preserved lemons. This comforting and exotic dish, perfect for a memorable dinner, offers a delightful balance of savory and tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more. This #chickentagine recipe from FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com is a culinary journey to the heart of Morocco.

Why This Recipe Works

• Flavorful Sauce: The rich, aromatic sauce is the star of this dish.
• Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures incredibly tender chicken.
• Briny Olives & Citrusy Lemons: The olives and preserved lemons provide a delicious balance of salty and tangy.
• Exotic Spices: A blend of warm spices creates an authentic Moroccan flavor profile.
• Elegant and Satisfying: Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3 lbs) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp saffron threads (optional)
• 1 preserved lemon, rind finely chopped, pulp discarded
• 200g (7 oz) green olives, pitted
• 500ml (2 cups) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large tagine or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on all sides.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add onion to the pot and cook until softened. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
3. Add Spices: Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and saffron (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add preserved lemon rind, olives, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer Tagine: Return chicken to the pot. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until chicken is tender.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with couscous or rice.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust spices to your preference. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, potatoes, or chickpeas for a heartier tagine.
• Other Olives: Kalamata olives can be used instead of green olives.
• Chicken Alternatives: Lamb or beef can be used instead of chicken.

Serving Suggestions

This #tagine is traditionally served with couscous. A side of crusty bread is also a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the delicious sauce.

More Moroccan Cuisine Recipes

For more flavorful recipes inspired by Moroccan cuisine, visit FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com. We regularly share new recipes and culinary adventures!