Moroccan Chicken and Olive Tagine
The Moroccan tagine is one of the most famous traditional dishes in Morocco. It is much more than just a meal – it represents family gatherings, warmth, and the joy of sharing food together. The name “tagine” comes from the clay pot in which it is cooked. This special pot keeps the heat inside and allows the flavors to blend slowly, giving the dish a taste you will never forget.
In Morocco, the tagine is served both on special occasions and on regular days. Each region has its own way of preparing it, adding a unique touch. There are many types of tagines such as vegetable tagine, lamb with prunes, or fish tagine. But one of the most loved recipes is chicken tagine with olives and preserved lemon, enjoyed not only in Morocco but also around the world.
What makes the tagine special is that it doesn’t require complicated ingredients. Simple everyday items like olives, lemon, spices, and onions transform the chicken into a rich and flavorful dish. As it cooks slowly, the aroma fills the house and makes everyone look forward to the meal.
That is why the Moroccan tagine is more than just food. It is a symbol of Moroccan tradition, combining simplicity with unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients (Approximate time: 50 minutes)
1 onion, sliced
1 chicken, cut into quarters and skin removed
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup pitted green olives
1 cup water
½ preserved lemon or yellow lemon, seeds removed and sliced
1 teaspoon turmeric
A pinch of saffron threads
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ginger
Salt, to taste
Chopped parsley
3 garlic cloves
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Steps (Approx. 50 minutes)
Step 1
Wash the chicken well with salt and lemon to remove the skin and odor.
Step 2
Season the chicken with spices, garlic, and parsley thoroughly, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Step 3
Place the earthenware tagine on the heat and add the olive oil.
Step 4
Put the seasoned chicken into the tagine over medium heat and turn it.
Step 5
Add the onion, then the water, stirring continuously.
Step 6
Cover the tagine and leave it for about half an hour until the onion softens and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7
After half an hour, add the preserved lemon and green olives, and let it simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is well-set.
Step 8
Serve with Moroccan or Arabic bread and a variety of salads as appetizers. Enjoy your meal!
Cooking a Moroccan Chicken and Olive Tagine is more than just following steps and mixing ingredients — it’s about bringing warmth and tradition to your table. Every bite tells a story of Moroccan hospitality, where simple spices turn into unforgettable flavors. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish has been loved for generations. So the next time you’re looking for a meal that combines comfort, taste, and culture, give this tagine a try. It may become one of those recipes you’ll always go back to when you want to impress your family or share something special with your guests.