Ingredients

2 broiler-fryer chickens
4 large minced onions
4 minced garlic cloves
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon saffron
1 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon mixed chopped fresh parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 cups water
2 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 preserved lemon ( available at a Middle Eastern grocery or a specialty foods store )
5 ounces olives
Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe for Moroccan chicken features classic ingredients such as saffron, cumin, and cinnamon, as well as preserved lemon and olives for a tangy twist. The chicken is coated in a fragrant spice mixture and slow-roasted until tender and juicy. The end result is a deliciously spiced chicken dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special family gathering. Serve the chicken with couscous or rice for a complete meal that will transport you to the vibrant markets and souks of Morocco.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, mix together the onions, garlic, ginger, saffron, olive oil, parsley or cilantro, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika.
2.Rub the chicken pieces with the spice mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
3.Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
4.Scatter the chicken pieces in a large roasting pan and pour over any of the remaining spice mixture. Add the lemon juice, water, salt, and black pepper.
5.Cut the preserved lemon in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp. Cut the rind into thin strips and add to the pan.
6.Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7.Remove the foil, baste the chicken with the pan juices, and scatter the olives around the chicken. Return to the oven and continue roasting, uncovered, for another 30 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

PROS

This Moroccan chicken is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of aromatic spices, preserved lemon, and olives.
It’s also a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze.

CONS

The spice mixture and preserved lemon require some advance preparation, so this recipe isn’t the best choice for a last-minute meal.

This dish is also fairly high in fat due to the use of a whole cup of olive oil.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This Moroccan chicken dish is high in protein and rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, iron, and potassium. However, it is also fairly high in fat and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Some of the spices used in this recipe, such as ginger and turmeric, have been linked to anti-inflammatory effects and other potential health benefits.

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