Step into the vibrant world of Moroccan cuisine with our mouthwatering Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Dates and Preserved Lemons! This dish is a true celebration of flavors, combining succulent chicken thighs with the sweetness of dates and the tangy brightness of preserved lemons. With its aromatic spices and rich sauce, this tagine will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets of Marrakech. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering, this recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 cup dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 preserved lemon, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, ground cumin, and ground coriander on both sides.
- Heat a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot and add chicken broth. Ensure the liquid covers about two-thirds of the chicken pieces.
- Sprinkle chopped dates and arrange sliced preserved lemons around the chicken. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low, allowing the tagine to simmer gently.
- Cook slowly for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is extremely tender and nearly falling off the bone. Occasionally check liquid levels and add more broth if needed.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, remove the lid to allow the sauce to reduce and concentrate its flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required. The sauce should be rich and slightly thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, accompanied by couscous or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best flavor and tenderness, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They hold up beautifully during the long cooking process and absorb the spices wonderfully.
- Don’t Rush the Sear: Take your time to sear the chicken until it’s golden brown. This step builds a rich depth of flavor that will enhance the entire dish.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to add more or fewer dates. They add a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and high-quality spices. Fresh ingredients will elevate the overall taste of your tagine.
- Simmer Slowly: The key to tender chicken is low and slow cooking. Allow the tagine to simmer gently for the full time to let the flavors meld and the chicken to become fall-off-the-bone tender.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh herbs! A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving adds a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your tagine with fluffy couscous or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad can complement the meal beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 323kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
