Chicken Tagine Recipe

Chicken Tagine is a quintessential Moroccan dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of North Africa. This aromatic stew is characterized by its vibrant blend of spices, sweet and sour flavors, and tender chicken, all slow-cooked to perfection in a traditional clay pot called a tagine. The dish is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring caramelized onions, succulent apricots, and briny olives, all infused with the deep warmth of cumin, coriander, and ginger. Chicken Tagine is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the bustling souks and vibrant markets of Morocco, where the air is filled with the enticing aromas of exotic spices and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

  • , bone-in and excess fat trimmed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ tablespoon paprika
  • 2 small bay leaves
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 14-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • ½ cup apricots
  • 1 cup chicken stock or water
  • 1 large preserved lemon or 3 small, sliced
  • 1½ cups green olives
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, cumin, and paprika. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the chicken and set aside. Drain excess oil.

  3. Saute the Veggies and Spices: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, ginger, coriander, smoked paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are wilted.

  1. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add chickpeas, apricots, preserved lemons, and green olives to the pan. Pour in chicken stock and stir gently.

  2. Return the Chicken: Place the browned chicken back into the pan, including any juices that have accumulated. Cover the pan with a lid or foil.

  3. Simmer the Tagine: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

  1. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped parsley. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Top Tips

  • Use Quality Spices: Fresh and high-quality spices make a significant difference in the flavor of the tagine.
  • Marinate Ahead: Marinating the chicken for a longer period enhances the depth of flavors.
  • Preserved Lemons: Use authentic preserved lemons for the best flavor; they add a unique salty-sour taste.
  • Adjust Liquid: Add more stock or water if the sauce becomes too thick during cooking.
  • Serve with Grains: Traditionally served with couscous or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to the tagine.

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper for a spicier tagine.
  • Apricot and Olive Swap: Substitute apricots with dried prunes or use different types of olives for varied flavors.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
  • Lemon Zest Addition: Add some lemon zest to the spice blend for extra citrus flavor.
  • Carrot and Potato Addition: Add sliced carrots and potatoes to the tagine for added texture and flavor.
  • Honey Glaze: Drizzle a little honey over the chicken before serving for a sweet and savory contrast.

Nutritional Guide

Servings Calories Fat Carbohydrates Protein
6 420 24g 20g 35g

Additional Nutritional Notes: Chicken Tagine is a nutritious meal that combines lean protein with complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. The dish is rich in fiber from the chickpeas and apricots, and the spices provide antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal that can be served with whole grains like couscous or rice to enhance its nutritional value.

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