Chicken Tagine Recipe

Morocco’s cuisine is renowned for its rich and aromatic flavors, and the Chicken Tagine is a true gem that embodies the essence of North African cooking. This traditional dish combines tender chicken with a tantalizing blend of spices, preserved lemons, olives, and a medley of aromatic herbs. Slow-cooked to perfection in a traditional clay pot, the Chicken Tagine offers a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of Marrakech. Immerse yourself in the exotic flavors of Morocco with our delightful Chicken Tagine recipe, an invitation to savor the taste of North Africa.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of saffron threads (optional)
• 1 preserved lemon, rinsed and cut into wedges
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Warm cooked couscous or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large tagine or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions to the tagine and sauté until they turn soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Place the chicken pieces in the tagine, skin side down, and cook until they turn golden brown on all sides.
5. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground ginger, paprika, ground cinnamon, saffron threads (if using), salt, and black pepper to the tagine. Stir well to coat the chicken with the aromatic spices.
6. Pour enough water into the tagine to cover the chicken about halfway. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Add the preserved lemon wedges and green olives to the tagine. Gently stir to incorporate them with the chicken and spices.
8. Continue to simmer the Chicken Tagine, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Remove the tagine from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve the Chicken Tagine hot, accompanied by warm cooked couscous or crusty bread.