This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a traditional North African dish full of exotic flavors, made with a variety of spices and slow-cooked in a traditional Tagine pot. The addition of sweet pears and honey provides a beautiful balance to the potent spices, making it a hearty and flavorful dish that's sure to impress.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not typically be found in your pantry. Ground turmeric, ground cumin, and ground coriander are essential spices in Moroccan cuisine, providing warmth and depth of flavor. Fresh ginger root is also crucial, as it adds a spicy, aromatic note. If you can't find a fresh bunch of cilantro, dried cilantro will work as a substitute.
Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Olive oil: A healthy fat used for sautéing onions and mixing with spices for coating the chicken. It also gives a rich flavor to the dish.
Onions: Provide a sweet, caramelized base for the tagine.
Chicken: The protein in this dish, it absorbs all the flavors from the spices and becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
Ground turmeric, Ground cumin, Ground coriander: These spices are the heart of Moroccan cuisine, they give the dish its distinctive warm and earthy flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.
Cinnamon sticks, Bay leaves: They infuse the tagine with a warm, aromatic flavor.
Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby flavor to the dish.
Fresh ginger root: Provides a spicy, aromatic note.
Butter: Adds richness and aids in caramelizing the pears.
Pears: Adds a sweet contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the tagine.
Honey: Caramelizes the pears and adds a sweet note to the dish.
One reader, Ephrem Ziegler says:
This Moroccan chicken tagine recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavors, and the caramelized pears add a delightful sweetness. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, making it a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner. I highly recommend trying it out!
Key Techniques for Crafting Moroccan Chicken Tagine
How to caramelize pears: Sauté sliced pears in butter and honey over low heat until the honey has caramelized, creating a sweet and tender topping for the tagine.
How to cook chicken in a tagine: Layer the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the cooked onions in the tagine, then cover and bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, typically for about 50 minutes.
How to soften and brown onions: Cook the onions in olive oil over medium heat until they are softened and browned, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
How To Make Moroccan Chicken Tagine
This Moroccan chicken tagine is an easy, slow-cooked filling and savory dish of juicy, heartily spiced chicken and sweet, caramelized pears.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 7tbspolive oil,divided
- 2onions,peeled and sliced
- 1whole chicken,cut into pieces
- 1tspground turmeric
- 1tspground cumin
- 1tspground coriander
- 1tspsalt
- 3cinnamon sticks
- 2bay leaves,crushed
- 1bunchfresh cilantro,chopped
- 2tbspfresh ginger root,peeled and minced
- ½cupwater
- 2tbspbutter
- 2pears,cored and sliced
- 2tbsphoney
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Heat 2 tablespoons o olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the onions for 8 to 10 minutes until softened and browned.
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Transfer the onions into a tagine. Layer the chicken pieces on top of the onions.
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Combine the turmeric, cumin, ground coriander, and salt in a small bowl, then mix well with the remaining 5 tablespoons of olive oil. Spread the spice mixture onto the chicken pieces.
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Add the cinnamon pieces, bay leaves, ginger, and cilantro. Pour in ½ cup of water and cover tagine with a lid.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes until chicken is no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear.
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Melt the butter in a skillet over low heat while the chicken is cooking. Add the sliced pears and honey and cook, while stirring, until the honey has caramelized.
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Remove the tagine from the oven and stir in caramelized pears. Return to the oven and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 687.28kcal
- Fat: 50.07g
- Saturated Fat: 13.29g
- Trans Fat: 0.35g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 25.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.36g
- Carbohydrates: 21.58g
- Fiber: 3.89g
- Sugar: 13.72g
- Protein: 38.34g
- Cholesterol: 160.18mg
- Sodium: 536.10mg
- Calcium: 65.43mg
- Potassium: 586.09mg
- Iron: 3.00mg
- Vitamin A: 138.50µg
- Vitamin C: 11.13mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Moroccan Chicken Tagine
When preparing the Moroccan chicken tagine, it's important to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed on the chicken. This can be achieved by using your hands to rub the spice mixture onto the chicken pieces, ensuring that every nook and cranny is coated. This will not only enhance the flavor but also ensure a consistent taste throughout the dish. Additionally, when caramelizing the pears in honey, be sure to keep the heat low and stir frequently to prevent the honey from burning. The pears should be soft and the honey should turn a deep golden color. This sweet and slightly tangy addition will provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Moroccan Chicken Tagine Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Make larger portions and freeze the extra for quick and easy meals on busy days.
Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils while cooking.
Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.
Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to efficiently multitask and save time in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Moroccan Chicken Tagine Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a neutral substitute for olive oil in cooking.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions and can be a good substitute in recipes.
whole chicken - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for whole chicken in recipes, providing a flavorful and juicy alternative.
ground turmeric - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for turmeric, providing a similar warm and earthy flavor.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin can be used as a substitute for coriander, providing a warm and earthy flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for salt, adding a savory and umami flavor to the dish.
cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute for cinnamon sticks, providing the same warm and sweet flavor.
bay leaves - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for bay leaves, providing a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and slightly peppery flavor.
fresh ginger root - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar warm and spicy flavor.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for water, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter, providing a rich and nutty flavor.
pears - Substitute with apples: Apples can be used as a substitute for pears, providing a similar sweet and crisp texture.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, adding a sweet and rich flavor to the dish.
How to Beautifully Present Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Elevate the tagine: Place the tagine on a beautiful serving platter or board to showcase the dish's Moroccan roots and add a touch of authenticity to the presentation.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the tagine to add a pop of vibrant green color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
Arrange the caramelized pears: Artfully place the caramelized pears around the tagine, creating a visually appealing and appetizing display that complements the savory flavors of the dish.
Drizzle with honey: Using a steady hand, drizzle a touch of honey over the tagine just before serving to add a glossy finish and a hint of sweetness to the presentation.
Serve with traditional Moroccan flatbread: Accompany the tagine with warm, freshly baked flatbread to enhance the dining experience and provide a traditional element to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tagine
- Oven: Used for baking and roasting dishes at a controlled temperature.
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Tagine: A traditional North African cooking vessel with a conical lid, used for slow-cooking stews and braises.
Storing and Freezing Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Allow the moroccan chicken tagine to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to soggy or mushy textures when reheated.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled tagine to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
When ready to reheat, gently warm the tagine in a covered skillet or saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled tagine in airtight, freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen moroccan chicken tagine can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Reheat as described above, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
If you plan to freeze the tagine, consider leaving out the pears and adding them fresh when reheating. This will help maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming mushy during the freezing and thawing process.
When reheating, be sure to bring the tagine to a full simmer to ensure it's heated through and safe to consume. Adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may mellow during storage.
How To Reheat Leftover Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover moroccan chicken tagine in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavors of the dish, ensuring that the chicken remains tender and the spices are well-incorporated.
For a quicker reheating option, use your microwave. Transfer the leftover tagine to a microwave-safe container and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Check the temperature of the chicken to ensure it's heated through before serving.
If you want to reheat your moroccan chicken tagine on the stovetop, place it in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the dish from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Stir occasionally and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is warm.
For a crispy twist, shred the leftover chicken and spread it out on a baking sheet. Place the sheet under your oven's broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy and golden brown. Serve the crispy chicken over the reheated tagine sauce, which can be warmed up separately using one of the methods mentioned above.
If you have a tagine pot, you can reheat the leftovers directly in it. Place the tagine pot over medium-low heat and add a small amount of water or chicken broth to the sauce. Cover the pot with its lid and let the dish simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the flavors have melded together once again.
Fascinating Fact About Moroccan Chicken Tagine
The Moroccan chicken tagine is a traditional North African dish that gets its name from the earthenware pot it's cooked in. The unique conical shape of the tagine pot helps to circulate the steam and keep the meat tender and flavorful. This cooking method allows the spices and ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and aromatic dish. The combination of sweet caramelized pears with savory spices and tender chicken makes this dish a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Is Making Tagine at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this Moroccan chicken tagine recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. The use of whole chicken, spices, and fresh produce may make it a cost-effective option for a household. However, the inclusion of cinnamon sticks and fresh ginger root could slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the flavor profile and the potential for leftovers, this recipe could be rated a solid 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, making it a reasonable choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Is Moroccan Chicken Tagine Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Moroccan chicken tagine recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish, but it does have some aspects that could be improved from a health perspective. Here's an analysis of the recipe:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of olive oil, which is high in calories and fat. While olive oil is a healthier choice compared to other oils, the quantity used could be reduced.
- The recipe includes honey and pears, which add natural sweetness but also contribute to the overall sugar content of the dish.
- On the positive side, the recipe incorporates a variety of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, which offer potential health benefits and add depth of flavor without relying on excessive salt or fat.
- The use of whole chicken provides a good source of protein, but the recipe does not specify the removal of the skin, which is high in saturated fat.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe. You can achieve similar results by using a smaller quantity and perhaps adding a bit of low-sodium chicken broth to maintain moisture.
- Opt for skinless chicken pieces to reduce the saturated fat content. Trimming any visible fat from the chicken can also help.
- Instead of using butter to caramelize the pears, try using a small amount of olive oil or omit the butter altogether. The natural sweetness of the pears and honey will still provide a lovely flavor.
- Increase the quantity of vegetables in the tagine. Adding more onions, carrots, or even sweet potatoes can boost the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Serve the tagine with a side of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice to make it a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Moroccan Chicken Dish
The Moroccan chicken tagine recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken, creating a rich and flavorful dish. The combination of turmeric, cumin, and coriander infuses the chicken with a warm and earthy essence, while the caramelized pears add a touch of sweetness. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a succulent and aromatic dish that is sure to impress. This recipe captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine and is perfect for a special dinner or gathering.
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Why trust this Moroccan Chicken Tagine Recipe:
This Moroccan Chicken Tagine recipe offers an authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine with a blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken. The use of cinnamon sticks and fresh ginger root infuses rich flavors, while the addition of caramelized pears adds a delightful sweetness. The combination of turmeric, cumin, and coriander creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Morocco.
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