Chicken Tajine

Name: Chicken Tajine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1.5 kg chicken pieces (skin-on, bone-in); 2 onions (sliced); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 preserved lemon (quartered); 1 cup green olives (pitted); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon honey

80 min 6 servings Medium

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Chicken Tajine

Aromatic and flavourful Chicken Tajine, a classic Moroccan dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Prep

20 min

Cook

60 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken Tajine is a beloved Moroccan dish known for its fragrant spices and tender chicken. Cooked in a unique conical pot, this dish allows for steam to circulate, infusing the chicken with exotic flavours. The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and ginger with preserved lemons and olives creates a complex and aromatic profile. It's a dish that brings warmth and a touch of the exotic to any dining table.

Instructions

Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, coriander, ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Pro tip: Marinating overnight allows the spices to deeply penetrate the chicken.

Sear the chicken

In a large tajine or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Sear the marinated chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Pro tip: Searing locks in the juices and enhances flavour.

Cook the onions and garlic

In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

Combine ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot. Add preserved lemon, olives, chicken broth, and honey. Stir to combine.

Simmer the tajine

Cover the pot with the lid. Reduce the heat to low and let the tajine simmer gently for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Pro tip: Check occasionally to make sure the liquid hasn’t evaporated too much. Add a little water if necessary.

Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy with couscous or flatbread.

Pro tip: For added flavour, sprinkle with toasted almonds or sesame seeds.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a traditional tajine pot for authentic flavours, but a Dutch oven works too.
Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the spices.
Control the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for tender chicken.
Serve with couscous or flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tajine?

A tajine is a North African dish named after the earthenware pot in which it is cooked. It features slow-cooked savoury stews with meat and vegetables.

What temperature should chicken be cooked to?

The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C).

Can I use a Dutch oven instead of a tajine pot?

Yes, a Dutch oven can substitute for a tajine pot if you don't have one.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for deeper flavour.

What can I serve with Chicken Tajine?

Chicken Tajine pairs well with couscous, flatbread, or a simple salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Tajine with a side of fluffy couscous or warm flatbread to soak up the rich and aromatic sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad of fresh greens dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette. Chicken Tajine can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavours only deepen with time, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.

Nutrition per serving

400

Calories

30g

Protein

25g

Fat

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