You know those recipes that transport you through time and space just by the smell? Chicken Tajine with Lemon and Olives It's like this. An explosion of aromas and flavors that feels like a warm hug coming straight from North Africa.
So, it’s the kind of dish that turns Sunday lunch into a gastronomic journey – without having to leave your kitchen!
So, if you like intense flavors, strong seasonings and heart-warming food, this recipe is for you. Let’s go!
Curiosities
THE tagine (or tagine) is a traditional dish of Moroccan cuisine, but it is also the name of the pot in which it is prepared.
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This clay pot with a conical lid helps to concentrate flavors and keep food moist – like culinary magic! Chicken with preserved lemon and olives is one of the most popular versions.
And it's no wonder: it's aromatic, succulent and full of personality. In Morocco, it's common to eat tagine with family, around the table, sharing bread with your hands. Just look at this wonderful connection with food!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 whole chicken cut into pieces (or 1 kg of thighs and drumsticks)
- 2 preserved lemons (or 1 regular lemon, thinly sliced)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 crushed garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of powdered ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 pinch of cinnamon (optional, but adds a special touch!)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 generous handful of pitted green olives
- 1 bunch of chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup water
Replacement Tips:
But I don't have preserved lemons, what can I do? Use slices of fresh Sicilian lemon with a little juice. It works really well!
Step by Step Preparation Method
- First, season the chicken with salt, pepper, ginger, turmeric, paprika and garlic. Leave it to marinate for at least 30 minutes (if you can, leave it for 2 hours – the flavor will be even more incredible).
- Secondly, in a pan (or tagine, if you have one), heat the olive oil and sauté the onion until golden brown.
- Then, add the chicken and brown the pieces well on all sides. This step adds flavor and color, so do your best!
- Then add the preserved lemon, olives, water and half of the chopped coriander.
- Cover and cook on low heat for about 40 to 50 minutes. The chicken will be super tender and the sauce will be thick and fragrant.
- Finally, top with the remaining fresh cilantro and, if desired, a drizzle of extra olive oil. Your house should now smell like a spice market in Marrakech!
Side Dish Suggestions
- Moroccan couscous with almonds and raisins (classic and goes great with everything!)
- Fluffy white rice or saffron rice
- Cucumber salad with yogurt and mint (refreshing and balances the flavors)
- Pita bread or homemade bread to dip in the sauce (because this sauce deserves to be savored to the last drop!)
Finally, do you have any leftovers? Shred the chicken and use it in a sandwich with pita bread, yogurt and green leaves. It's delicious!
SEE ALSO:
- Spaghetti alla Carbonara: An Italian Hug!
- Brownie with Walnuts and Salted Caramel Sauce
- Fun recipes to make with your kids
Extra Curiosities
- Vegetarian version? Yes! You can use chickpeas, zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes instead of chicken. The spices do the magic just the same!
- Preserved lemon It is very common in Moroccan cuisine and can be made at home: lemons, coarse salt and patience. It is worth trying!
Finishing – Chicken Tajine
Food has this magical power to take us to other places, and also tell stories and bring together those we love. Thus, Chicken Tajine with Lemon and Olives It's exactly that: tradition, affection and flavor on the same plate.
So, let’s put on some Moroccan music, call your family or friends and embark on this journey without leaving the kitchen? Let me know how it turned out – I bet it will be a hit!