Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Citrus & Olive Infused Chicken Tajine Delight, featuring succulent chicken, tangy citrus, savory olives, and aromatic spices.
Zesty Citrus & Olive Infused Chicken Tajine Delight
Introduction
Experience a journey to the heart of North African cuisine with our Zesty Citrus & Olive Infused Chicken Tajine Delight. This dish marries the rich, aromatic flavors of Morocco with the tangy freshness of citrus and savory olives. A perfect blend of spices creates a delightful symphony of flavors that dance across the palate. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to an exotic meal, this tajine will transport you to the bustling souks of Marrakech with just one bite. Let's delve into the culinary magic of this traditional Moroccan recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, finely sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 pinch of saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
- 1 preserved lemon, rinsed, pulp removed, and finely chopped
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 bay leaves
Step-by-step Instructions
Preparation.
- Begin by cleaning the chicken pieces thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels and set aside.
Marinating the Chicken.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, turmeric, cumin, ginger, cinnamon, paprika, and the saffron water. Mix these spices together until they form a fragrant, smooth paste.
- Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the spice mixture, ensuring that every part of the meat is well-marinated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse deeply into the chicken.
Cooking the Tajine.
- Heat a large tajine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned.
- Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions. Sauté until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Building the Flavor.
- Stir in the preserved lemon and bay leaves, allowing them to release their aroma.
- Return the chicken to the pot, along with any juices that may have accumulated on the plate.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Tajine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken cook slowly for about 45 minutes to an hour, checking occasionally to ensure there is enough liquid, and adding a little more broth or water if necessary.
Adding the Final Touches.
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the green olives and orange zest. Stir gently to incorporate the ingredients.
- Allow the tajine to simmer uncovered to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Garnishing and Serving.
- Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and parsley before serving.
Conclusion
Serve your Zesty Citrus & Olive Infused Chicken Tajine Delight with warm couscous or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. This dish not only captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine but is also a feast for the senses — aromatic, vibrant, and deliciously fulfilling. Each mouthful promises a burst of tangy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors that will leave your guests craving more. Enjoy the delightful culinary trip!