Moroccan Tajine with Chicken and Olive | Traditional Flavorful Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to this delicious and aromatic Moroccan chicken and olive tajine. This traditional dish is a staple in Moroccan cuisine, known for its unique blend of spices and rich flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, let’s dive into the world of Moroccan cuisine and learn how to prepare this mouthwatering chicken and olive Tajine.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the ingredients needed for this delightful dish:

– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces

– 1 cup green olives, pitted

– 2 onions, finely chopped

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 teaspoons ground cumin

– 2 teaspoons ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 2 cups chicken broth

– Juice of 1 lemon

– Optional: preserved lemons for garnish

Steps

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making this delicious chicken and olive Tajine:

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with minced garlic, ground cumin, ground ginger, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated evenly with the spices. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onions

Heat olive oil in a Tajine pot or a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and start to caramelize, usually around 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Browning the Chicken

Once the onions are caramelized, remove them from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook on medium-high heat until they are browned on all sides. This step helps seal in the flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful golden color.

Step 4: Adding the Spices and Olives

Return the sautéed onions to the pot with the browned chicken. Add the chicken broth, green olives, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the Tajine to cook for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. The olives will release their briny flavor, infusing the dish with a delightful tanginess.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the Tajine from the heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. For an authentic touch, garnish with preserved lemons. Serve the chicken and olive Tajine hot with steamed couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Variations

While the traditional Moroccan chicken and olive Tajine recipe is already incredibly delicious, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Tajine

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with a combination of your favorite vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you choose.

Lamb Tajine

For a heartier and more robust flavor, you can substitute the chicken with lamb chunks. Lamb Tajine is a popular variation in Moroccan cuisine, and the slow cooking process will result in tender and succulent meat.

Spicy Tajine

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the marinade. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors of the Tajine.

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results when making Moroccan chicken and olive Tajine:

Use a Tajine Pot

While you can use a regular pot or skillet to make this dish, using an authentic Tajine pot will enhance the flavors and ensure even heat distribution. The conical shape of the Tajine pot helps trap steam, resulting in tender and moist chicken.

Let the Flavors Develop

For the most flavorful Tajine, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat and infuse it with their aromatic flavors.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooking the chicken can result in dry and tough meat. Make sure to monitor the cooking time and remove the Tajine from the heat as soon as the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Conclusion

Moroccan Tajine with chicken and olives is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Morocco to your table. The combination of tender chicken, briny olives, and aromatic spices creates a truly memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting homemade meal, this traditional Moroccan Tajine recipe is a fantastic choice. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Morocco.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this Tajine?

A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead of a whole chicken. However, bone-in chicken will add more flavor to the Tajine.

Q: Can I use black olives instead of green olives?

A: While green olives are traditionally used in this recipe, you can certainly use black olives if you prefer their taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile of the Tajine will be slightly different.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the leftover Tajine in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in a microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this Tajine in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow the steps for sautéing the onions and browning the chicken in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.