Nigella Chicken Tagine

Dive into the aromatic world of Moroccan cuisine with Nigella Lawson's Chicken Tagine, a dish that promises to transport your senses straight to the bustling streets of Marrakech. This recipe, a community favorite from Nigella's collection, is not only a celebration of flavors but also a nod to the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Nigella's Chicken Tagine is a symphony of tender chicken pieces infused with the vibrant tastes of preserved lemons, olives, and a blend of exotic spices. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the ingredients to meld together and create a sauce that's bursting with depth and character.

Cultural or Historical Context

Tagine, named after the earthenware pot it's traditionally cooked in, has a storied place in Moroccan cuisine. This cooking method, which dates back centuries, is revered for its ability to tenderize meat and concentrate flavors, resulting in dishes that are rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients for the Chicken Tagine

• Chicken, cut into pieces
• Onions, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh coriander and parsley, roughly chopped
• Preserved lemon, for that unique citrusy kick
• A mix of ground spices including ginger, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of saffron for warmth and color
• Green olives, adding briny notes
• Olive oil and butter for cooking
• Lemon juice, to brighten the dish

Quantities and additional ingredients can be adjusted to taste or according to the number of servings needed.

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by marinating the chicken in a blend of the spices, garlic, and herbs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
2. In a tagine or heavy pot, sauté onions until soft, then add the marinated chicken, allowing it to brown.
3. Add water, cover, and simmer, letting the chicken cook slowly until tender. If including vegetables like potatoes or courgettes, add them midway through cooking.
4. Towards the end, if the sauce needs thickening, remove the chicken and reduce it to the desired consistency before reintroducing the chicken along with olives and preserved lemon.

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores well in the refrigerator and can be gently reheated on the stove or in a microwave, with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Nutritional Information

Chicken tagine is a balanced dish, offering a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, especially when served with traditional sides like couscous or flatbread.

FAQ about the Chicken Tagine

• Can I make this dish without a traditional tagine? Yes, a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works well as an alternative.
• How can I adjust the recipe for a vegetarian version? Substitute chicken with root vegetables or chickpeas for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly meal.

Enjoy this Chicken Tagine with a side of fluffy couscous, crusty bread, or warm flatbread for a truly Moroccan dining experience. The blend of spices, tangy preserved lemons, and the richness of olives promise a meal that's both comforting and exotic.

Original recipe inspiration from Nigella Lawson's community recipes​​​​.