Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 chicken , each cut into 6 pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
2 small onions , finely grated
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3 inches cinnamon sticks or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon saffron thread , crumbled
2 medium tomatoes , peeled , seeded and coarsely chopped or 1 1/2 cups drained , canned tomatoes
6 cloves garlic , finely chopped
1 cup flat leaf parsley , finely chopped
1 cup cilantro , finely chopped
3 preserved lemons
1/2 lb kalamata olive
Chicken Tajine with Olives and Preserved Lemons is a classic Moroccan dish that is beloved for its complex flavors and exotic aromas. Traditionally cooked in a clay tajine, this dish is a slow-cooked braise of chicken pieces that are flavored with a blend of spices and herbs, including ginger, cinnamon, saffron, parsley, and cilantro. The addition of olives and preserved lemons adds a bold, briny flavor to the dish that pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken. This dish is often served with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Instructions

1.Heat the olive oil in a clay tajine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2.Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and brown them in the hot oil, turning occasionally.
3.When the chicken is browned on all sides, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
4.Add the grated onions, minced ginger, cinnamon sticks and saffron to the pot and cook until the onions are softened and translucent, stirring frequently.
5.Add the chopped tomatoes and garlic to the pot and cook until the tomatoes have released their juices and the mixture is fragrant.
6.Return the chicken to the pot and add enough water to partially cover the chicken.
7.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8.While the chicken is cooking, prepare the preserved lemons by removing the pulp and cutting the skin into thin strips.
9.After the chicken has simmered for 30 minutes, add the chopped parsley and cilantro, as well as the olives and the preserved lemon strips.
10.Stir gently to combine and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the dish is heated through.
11.Serve the chicken tajine hot, garnished with additional chopped herbs or preserved lemons if desired.

PROS

Chicken Tajine with Olives and Preserved Lemons is a flavorful and aromatic dish with tender, juicy chicken and bold, briny flavors.

It is also relatively healthy, with lean protein from the chicken and heart-healthy fats from the olives and olive oil.

CONS

This dish is somewhat time-consuming to prepare, with several steps involved in the cooking process.

It may also be difficult to find some of the more specialized ingredients, such as preserved lemons or saffron thread.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps to build and repair muscles and tissues in the body.
Olives and olive oil are a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels in the body.
Additionally, the spices and herbs used in this recipe, such as ginger, cinnamon, and parsley, are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help to boost immunity and protect against disease.

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