Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe: Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and rich aromas. One of its standout dishes is Moroccan Chicken with Preserved Lemons and Olives.
This savory chicken recipe combines tangy preserved lemons and salty olives. It creates a delightful balance that transports you straight to the heart of Morocco. We love to serve it with fluffy couscous or warm Moroccan bread, making each meal truly satisfying.
During our travels, we’ve learned that this dish is often cooked slowly to enhance the flavors. It can be enjoyed alongside rice or even with crispy patate frite for a modern twist. This recipe showcases the use of unique ingredients like smen, which adds a cherished richness, rounding out the flavors of the meal.
Join us as we explore how to create this classic dish that captures the essence of Moroccan cooking. We’re excited to share our culinary journey and show you how to bring a taste of Morocco into your kitchen.
About Us
We are John and Laurel Rodgers, an American couple passionate about travel and cooking. We explore the world, sampling diverse cuisines and gathering recipes along the way.
Our adventures take us to various restaurants and cooking classes, where we learn from talented chefs. We believe that food brings people together and share our experiences through our blog.
Our mission is to inspire others to try new recipes and flavors. By documenting our culinary journey, we hope to connect with fellow food lovers and travel enthusiasts.
You can learn more about us and our love for wildlife preservation here. We invite you to join us on this delicious adventure. Let’s explore the rich tastes of Moroccan Chicken with Preserved Lemons and Olives tagine recipe together!
Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe
We believe this dish captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine beautifully. The combination of flavors makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to explore new tastes.
Unique Flavor Profile
- Tanginess: The preserved lemons bring a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the dish.
- Saltiness: Moroccan olives add a savory depth, creating a balanced taste.
Cultural Significance
This recipe is more than just a meal; it reflects Moroccan tradition. Often served during celebrations, preparing this dish connects us to the rich heritage of Morocco.
Comforting and Satisfying
The slow-cooked chicken becomes tender and juicy, falling off the bone. The thick sauce envelops the chicken, making every bite comforting.
Simple Cooking Technique
Even if we are not expert chefs, this dish is easy to make. Simmering allows the flavors to meld perfectly without needing complicated techniques.
Perfect for Gatherings
Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this Moroccan dish impresses guests. It offers a taste of Moroccan cooking that sparks conversation and curiosity.
Incorporating this recipe into our cooking repertoire allows us to share a piece of Moroccan culture with others, making each meal a delightful experience.
What Makes This Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe Special
This Moroccan chicken recipe stands out due to its unique flavors and cooking method.
Preserved lemons add a distinctive tang that brightens the dish. Their zesty kick is a hallmark of Moroccan cuisine.
Olives contribute a rich, briny taste that complements the chicken beautifully. Together, they create a balance of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Cooking this dish in a traditional tagine allows for even heat distribution. This method keeps the chicken moist and tender while enhancing the overall taste.
The use of aromatic spices is another key feature. Spices like cumin, coriander, and saffron not only elevate the flavors but also reflect Morocco’s diverse culinary history.
This recipe is versatile too. We can enjoy it as a hearty main course or serve it as part of a larger spread with sides like fluffy couscous.
Finally, the communal aspect of sharing a tagine makes it ideal for family meals or gatherings. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma invite everyone to the table.
With its blend of tastes, traditions, and the warm spirit of Moroccan hospitality, this chicken with preserved lemons and olives is truly special.
Cooking Equipment Needed
To make Moroccan Chicken with Preserved Lemons and Olives tagine recipe, having the right cooking equipment is essential.
Here’s a list of what we recommend:
- Tagine: This traditional Moroccan pot, with its conical lid, helps to keep moisture in while cooking. It’s perfect for slow-cooked dishes.
- Dutch Oven: A versatile and heavy pot ideal for cooking on the stovetop or in the oven. It distributes heat evenly, making it great for this recipe.
- Heavy-Bottomed Pot: If you don’t have a tagine or Dutch oven, a heavy-bottomed pot can work well. It helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking.
- Heat Diffuser: If using a tagine on direct heat, a heat diffuser can help distribute the heat evenly and prevent cracking.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: These are necessary for prepping your ingredients, such as chopping onions and slicing preserved lemons.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of spices and liquids are important for balancing flavors.
- Mixing Spoon: A sturdy spoon will help us stir the ingredients together during cooking.
Having these items on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. We find that using the right tools enhances the flavors of the dish.
Cooking Instructions
To start, we need to prepare the chicken. If using a whole chicken, cut it into pieces. Boneless chicken thighs work well too.
Next, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they become translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Now, we can add minced garlic and ground ginger. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to combine.
It’s time to introduce our spices. Add ground cumin, paprika, and ground turmeric. Stir everything for a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in a splash of vegetable oil if the mixture is too dry.
Once the spices are ready, add the chicken pieces. Sear them until they are golden brown on all sides, which takes about 5–10 minutes.
Next, it’s time for the star ingredients. Add preserved lemons and green olives to the pot. We also include a few saffron threads for added flavor.
Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat. Allow it to cook gently for 40–50 minutes.
Once the chicken is tender, we can use this time to make the onion sauce. Remove the chicken and deglaze the pot with some water or broth.
After that, we can finish our dish by broiling the chicken for a few minutes to crisp the skin, if desired. Enjoy this aromatic dish with your favorite side!
Cooking Tips
When making Moroccan chicken with preserved lemons and olives, our first tip is to marinate the chicken. A good marinade enhances the flavor. Use salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro for a fresh taste.
Ingredients for Marinade:
We recommend marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to soak in, making the chicken tender and flavorful.
While cooking, reduce the heat to avoid overcooking. This helps keep the chicken juicy. If using preserved lemons, rinse them well to remove excess salt before adding them to your dish.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot or a tagine for even cooking. If you have a Dutch oven, it’s a great option too.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with couscous to absorb the sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top for added color and fresh flavor.
Lastly, adjust the amount of preserved lemons for your personal taste. If you like a stronger citrus flavor, add more slices.
Ingredients For the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe
Chicken Marinade
Garlic
Olive Oil
Saffron
Paprika
Turmeric
Coriander
Cinnamon
Lemon Seeds
Chicken Stock
Lemon Juice
Tagine
Olive Oil
Red Onion
Carrots
Garlic, chopped finely
Turmeric
Olives
Apricots
Lemon
Parsley
Cooking Instructions For the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe
Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels and set them aside.
Making the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine grated garlic, olive oil, saffron, spices, and chopped preserved lemon, whisking until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade, then set aside.
Searing the Chicken
Heat a medium-sized cast iron skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down, and cook until the skin turns a deep golden color, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
Preparing the Cooking Liquid
While the chicken is cooking, pour 1 cup of water and preserved lemon juice into the same bowl used for marinating. Whisk briefly to collect any remaining marinade and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
Once the chicken is browned on both sides, transfer it to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and carrots, sautéing until the onions soften slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and turmeric, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
Simmering the Dish
Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin side up, and pour in the chicken stock along with the preserved lemon juice mixture. Bring the liquid to a simmer and let the chicken cook through, about 15-20 minutes.
Finishing Touches
During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, add the olives, chopped apricots, and sliced preserved lemon. Once finished, garnish the tagine with freshly chopped parsley and serve.
FAQ For the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe
Question: What is the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine recipe?
A: The Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives recipe is a dish that combines chicken with the bold taste of preserved lemons and olives, creating a balance of rich, tangy, and briny flavors. This recipe is influenced by North African and Mediterranean cooking traditions, often prepared with aromatic spices and slow-cooked for tenderness.
Question: What ingredients are needed for the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine recipe?
A: The Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives recipe typically includes chicken, preserved lemons, green or black olives, garlic, onions, olive oil, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. Some variations may also use saffron or turmeric for added depth.
Question: How do you cook the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine recipe?
A: To prepare the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives recipe, start by marinating the chicken with spices and olive oil. Sauté onions and garlic, then add the chicken, preserved lemons, and olives. Simmer everything in broth or water until the chicken is tender and infused with flavor. Serve with rice, couscous, or flatbread.
Question: Can I make the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives recipe can be made ahead of time, as the flavors develop even more when left to rest. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Question: What can I serve with the Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine recipe?
A: The Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives recipe pairs well with fluffy couscous, basmati rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables can complement the dish for a complete meal.
Moroccan Chicken Preserved Lemons, Olives Tagine Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 3 cloves Garlic grated
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Saffron liquid or pinch of saffron threads
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Turmeric
- ½ tsp Coriander
- ½ tsp Cinnamon
- 1/4 cup Lemon Seeds preserved removed and chopped finely
- 1 cup Chicken Stock
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice preserved
Tagine
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil for drizzling
- 1 Red Onion small sliced thin
- 2 Carrots sliced thin
- 2 cloves Garlic chopped finely
- ½ tsp Turmeric
- 1 cup Olives whole castelveltrano
- ½ cup Apricots dried roughly chopped
- 1 Lemon preserved sliced thin for garnish
- 1/4 cup Parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels and set them aside.
Making the Marinade
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine grated garlic, olive oil, saffron, spices, and chopped preserved lemon, whisking until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade, then set aside.
Searing the Chicken
- Heat a medium-sized cast iron skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down, and cook until the skin turns a deep golden color, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
Preparing the Cooking Liquid
- While the chicken is cooking, pour 1 cup of water and preserved lemon juice into the same bowl used for marinating. Whisk briefly to collect any remaining marinade and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
- Once the chicken is browned on both sides, transfer it to a plate and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and carrots, sautéing until the onions soften slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and turmeric, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
Simmering the Dish
- Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin side up, and pour in the chicken stock along with the preserved lemon juice mixture. Bring the liquid to a simmer and let the chicken cook through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Finishing Touches
- During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, add the olives, chopped apricots, and sliced preserved lemon. Once finished, garnish the tagine with freshly chopped parsley and serve.
1 comment
I just made this for the first time, and wow—the balance of salty, tangy, and savoury is incredible! The preserved lemons added a bright punch, while the olives gave a deep, briny contrast. The chicken was so tender, it practically fell apart. Served with warm bread to soak up every drop of the rich sauce, and my guests couldn’t stop raving about how bold and well-balanced the dish was!