Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Moroccan cuisine with this classic Chicken Tagine. This delightful dish combines succulent chicken pieces with a medley of spices, dried fruits, and aromatic herbs to create a deeply flavorful stew that is both comforting and exotic. Served with fluffy couscous or warm bread, it’s a perfect centerpiece for any meal.

“A tagine is not just a dish; it’s an experience—a symphony of flavors that tells the story of Morocco.”

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tagine:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup golden raisins
• 1 preserved lemon, thinly sliced (rind only)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

For Serving:

• Couscous or crusty bread
• Additional fresh cilantro or parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and saffron (if using), cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Brown the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces. Sear them on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

4. Simmer the Tagine Base: In the same pot, pour in the chicken broth or water. Add dried apricots, raisins, and preserved lemon slices. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

5. Cook the Chicken: Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid or foil and let it cook on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

6. Finish and Serve: Check seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving. Pair the tagine with fluffy couscous or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

Indulge in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a heartwarming addition to any dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and the unique twist of preserved lemons creates a dish that is both comforting and exotic. Serve with couscous or warm bread for an authentic Moroccan experience. Enjoy this culinary journey through Morocco right in your own kitchen!