Recipe: Moroccan Grilled Chicken Tagine With Preserved Lemon And Olives

Introduction

Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan cooking is the Grilled Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives. This recipe combines succulent grilled chicken with the tanginess of preserved lemons and the brininess of olives, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Morocco. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to recreate this Moroccan classic at home.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 preserved lemon, seeds removed and thinly sliced
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, and ground turmeric. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the bowl. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Preparing the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grilling the chicken

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them on the preheated grill. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs. Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Creating the tagine sauce

In a large skillet or tagine, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the sliced preserved lemon, green olives, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, and ground turmeric. Cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Simmering the tagine

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Gently place the grilled chicken thighs into the tagine sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the skillet or tagine and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Serving

Once the chicken is tender and infused with all the delicious flavors, remove it from the tagine sauce and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness and color. Serve the Moroccan Grilled Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives alongside warm couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Conclusion

The Moroccan Grilled Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives is a delightful dish that brings the exotic flavors of Morocco to your table. The combination of tender grilled chicken, tangy preserved lemons, and briny olives creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of Moroccan cuisine in the comfort of your own home.