Step into a world of vibrant flavors and aromatic spices with our irresistible Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon! This Moroccan delight is not just a dish; it's an experience that will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets of Marrakech. Imagine tender chicken simmered to perfection, infused with the zesty brightness of preserved lemons and the earthy warmth of spices. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe promises to impress. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the secrets of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 preserved lemon, quartered
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup green olives
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the pieces dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with ground ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, and black pepper.
- Heat a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and brown the chicken pieces on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Return the chicken pieces to the pot and add chicken stock. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Quarter the preserved lemon and add it to the pot, along with the green olives. Cover the tagine or pot and let it simmer slowly, allowing the chicken to cook and absorb the flavors.
- Cook for approximately 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and easily falls off the bone. Occasionally check the liquid level and add more stock if needed to prevent burning.
- Once the chicken is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if required. The sauce should be slightly thickened and rich with aromatic spices.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving. Serve hot with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- Choose Quality Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. They will stay moist during cooking and absorb the spices beautifully.
- Sear for Flavor: Don't skip the browning step! Searing the chicken creates a delicious crust that adds depth to the overall flavor of the tagine.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste. If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Use Homemade Stock: If possible, use homemade chicken stock for a richer flavor. Store-bought is fine, but homemade elevates the dish.
- Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the cooking liquid as it simmers. If it gets too low, add more stock to ensure the chicken remains moist and flavorful.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Chicken Tagine with fluffy couscous or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce, making every bite a delight.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness. Don’t skimp on the garnish; it enhances both the presentation and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
