Moroccan Chicken Tagine
How to Make Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Olives
If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that’s rich in flavor, full of history, and surprisingly simple to make, then Moroccan Chicken Tagine is exactly what you need. This classic dish combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, preserved lemons, and briny olives—slow-cooked until the flavors melt together.
Whether you’re in the U.S., Europe, or anywhere else in the world, learning this dish will bring a little taste of Morocco into your kitchen.
A tagine is both the name of the dish and the pot it’s traditionally cooked in. The pot has a cone-shaped lid, which helps trap steam and return moisture to the food, resulting in tender, flavorful meals.
“Cooking in a tagine is like cooking in a gentle cloud of flavor.”
But don’t worry—if you don’t own a traditional clay tagine, you can still make this dish in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
🛒 For the Chicken
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs or drumsticks | 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) | Bone-in for more flavor |
| Onion (grated) | 2 medium | Helps make the sauce base |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 4–5 | Fresh is best |
| Olive oil | 4 tbsp | Moroccan dishes use generous olive oil |
| Ground turmeric | 1 tsp | Adds color and mild flavor |
| Ground ginger | 1 tsp | A key Moroccan spice |
| Ground pepper | ½ tsp | Black or white pepper works |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Saffron threads | A pinch (optional) | Soaked in warm water for richer aroma |
| Water or chicken broth | 2 cups | Enough to cover the chicken partially |
🍋 For the Flavor Boost
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preserved lemons | 2 | Quartered, seeds removed |
| Green or purple olives | 1 cup | Pitted, whole or halved |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
| Fresh cilantro | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
🥘 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Base
- In your tagine or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add grated onions and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in turmeric, ginger, pepper, and salt.
- Add chicken pieces and brown them lightly on all sides.
🌿 Step 2: Add Liquid and Saffron
- If using saffron, soak it in 2 tbsp warm water and pour it in.
- Add water or broth until the chicken is halfway covered.
- Cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for about 45 minutes, turning chicken occasionally.
Tip: Tagine cooking is all about low and slow—be patient!
🍋 Step 3: Add the Preserved Lemons and Olives
- About 10 minutes before the chicken is done, add preserved lemon quarters and olives.
- Continue cooking uncovered so the sauce thickens slightly.
🌿 Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh parsley and cilantro on top.
- Serve directly from the tagine or pot, family-style.
Serving Suggestions
- Traditionally eaten with Moroccan khobz bread to scoop up the sauce.
- You can also serve it with:
- Fluffy couscous
- Steamed rice
- Roasted vegetables
“In Morocco, bread is your fork and spoon.”
Time-Saving Tips
- No preserved lemons? Use fresh lemon slices and a pinch of salt for a quick alternative.
- Make the preserved lemons ahead—they last months in the fridge.
- Use boneless chicken if you want faster cooking time (30–35 minutes).
Key Takeaways
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Cooking Style | Slow-cooked, aromatic, Moroccan-style |
| Main Flavors | Lemony, briny, spiced, and savory |
| Best Meat Choice | Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks |
| Special Ingredient | Preserved lemons for authentic flavor |
| Serving Tradition | With bread, couscous, or rice |
FAQs
Do I need a tagine pot to make this dish?
No! A heavy pot or Dutch oven works fine, but the tagine gives a more authentic experience.
What are preserved lemons?
They’re lemons cured in salt and their own juice, giving a tangy, salty flavor. Common in Moroccan cooking.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add fresh chili or cayenne pepper to the onions for a mild heat.
Can I make it in advance?
Absolutely. Tagine flavors deepen after resting—reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Olives is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Moroccan hospitality and tradition. It’s hearty yet bright, rich yet fresh, and perfect for both family dinners and special occasions.
Whether you’re in a kitchen in Paris, a small flat in London, or a home in New York, you can recreate the warmth of Morocco with just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time.
“One bite, and you’ll feel like you’re dining in the heart of Marrakech.”
