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Delicious Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives
Are you ready to dive into the world of Moroccan cuisine? Today, we’re making a delightful dish called Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives. This recipe is famous for its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Tagine is not just a dish; it’s also the name of the pot it’s cooked in, which has a unique cone-shaped lid that helps keep everything nice and juicy.
This dish has a long history, rooted in Moroccan culture, where it’s often served during family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, tangy preserved lemons, and salty olives makes it a favorite for many! It’s popular not only for its taste but also because it showcases how wonderful Moroccan spices can be.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs, skinless | 4 pieces |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 1 stick |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Preserved lemons, sliced | 1 whole |
| Green olives, pitted | 1 cup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion and garlic, and slice the preserved lemons.
- Heat the Oil: In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon stick. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Broth and Lemons: Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced preserved lemons. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Stir in Olives: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the pitted green olives. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with couscous or bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Fats | 20g | 31% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 200IU | 4% |
| Calcium | 30mg | 3% |
Tips and Tricks
- Make it Zesty: If you love citrus, add more slices of preserved lemon for an extra zing.
- Olive Options: You can use Kalamata or black olives if you prefer a different flavor.
- Avoid Dry Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be juicy and tender!
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with couscous or flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce.
FAQs
What is a tagine?
A tagine is both a dish and a type of cooking pot used in North African cuisine. Its unique shape helps cook food evenly and keeps it moist.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster and can become dry, so be careful not to overcook them.
Do I have to use preserved lemons?
While preserved lemons are key for this recipe, you can substitute with fresh lemon juice and zest, but the flavor will be different.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Chicken Tagine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! You can freeze Chicken Tagine for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with Chicken Tagine?
Serve it with couscous, rice, or warm bread to enjoy with the tasty sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
No, Chicken Tagine is not typically spicy. It’s flavorful from the spices used but lacks heat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or assorted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian tagine.
What type of olives should I use?
You can use green olives or any type of olives you prefer. Just make sure they are pitted!
How can I enhance the flavor?
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end can brighten up the flavors. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick!
Can I use other meats besides chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with lamb or beef, but cooking times will vary depending on the meat used.
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