Chicken tajine – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Morocco Servings: Serves 4
Morocco Servings: Serves 4A luscious Moroccan Chicken Tajine, a North African culinary gem, known for its slow-cooked, aromatic blend of spices, tender chicken, and a medley of vegetables. Originating from the kitchens of Morocco, this savory stew is traditionally prepared in a conical clay pot called a ‘tajine’, which ensures the dish’s unparalleled taste and texture. Each bite conjures up images of vibrant Moroccan marketplaces bustling with colorful spices and fresh produce.
Ingredients
- chicken thighs – 6 pieces
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- onion – 1 large / 150 g, sliced
- garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- ginger – 1 tbsp / 6 g, grated
- ground cumin – 1 tsp / 2 g
- cinnamon stick – 1
- ground turmeric – 1 tsp / 2 g
- chicken stock – 2 cups / 480 ml
- preserved lemons – 2, sliced
- green olives – 1 cup / 150 g
- fresh cilantro – 1/4 cup / 10 g, chopped
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
- carrots – 2 large / 200 g, chopped
- potatoes – 2 medium / 200 g, cubed
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan or tajine over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add ground cumin, cinnamon stick, and ground turmeric. Stir to combine.
- Add chicken thighs to the pan, browning on all sides.
- Pour in chicken stock and add preserved lemons, olives, carrots, and potatoes.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Substitutions
- preserved lemons -> fresh lemon zest
- chicken thighs -> chicken drumsticks or breast
- green olives -> black olives
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add saffron for depth of flavor.
- Include apricots or raisins for a hint of sweetness.
- Marinate the chicken overnight in the spices for enhanced flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
