Moroccan Chicken Tajine is a traditional North African dish known for its rich and aromatic flavors. The term “tajine” refers to both the dish and the special clay pot with a conical lid in which it is typically cooked. Here’s a basic recipe for preparing Moroccan Chicken Tajine:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (about 3.3 lbs) chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of saffron threads (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup preserved lemons, cut into wedges (or substitute with fresh lemon slices)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large tajine pot or a heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until softened and translucent.
- Add Spices: Add ground ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and saffron (if using) to the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides.
- Add Liquid: Pour in chicken broth or water to the pot, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the tajine, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add Olives and Preserved Lemons: About 15 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add green olives and preserved lemons to the tajine.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the Moroccan Chicken Tajine with fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Serve Hot: Serve the tajine hot with couscous or crusty bread.
Enjoy your delicious Moroccan Chicken Tajine with its fragrant spices and unique combination of flavors!
