Moroccan chicken with green olives and lemon
Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon is a fragrant dish that blends spiced chicken with zesty lemons and briny olives. The chicken is marinated with aromatic spices and simmered until tender, making it a comforting meal best served over couscous or with crusty bread.
Cook time 55 min
Prep time 25 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp cinnamon1 lb chicken meat
1 onion
2 lemons
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ginger
2 cups chicken broth
2 garlic cloves
20 olives
1 tbsp paprika
2 tsp ground cumin
Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon is a flavorful and aromatic dish that's perfect for anyone looking to explore North African cuisine. The dish combines tender chicken with spices like cinnamon, ginger, cumin, and paprika, complemented by the tanginess of green olives and lemons. It’s a fragrant and delicious dish best served over couscous or with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth.
Instructions:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Slice one of the lemons into thin rounds and juice the other.
- Cut the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces if not already done.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cinnamon, ginger, paprika, and ground cumin. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, cooking them until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the lemon juice and lemon slices to the pan.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- About 5 minutes before the end of cooking, add the green olives to the pan. Continue to simmer until heated through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices to your preference.
- Serve the Moroccan chicken hot, garnished with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired.
With its unique blend of spices and tangy flavors, Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and zesty lemons creates a dish that's both comforting and exciting. Enjoy this dish with loved ones and let the flavors transport you to the bustling markets of Morocco.
Moroccan chicken with green olives and lemon FAQ:
The total cooking time for Moroccan chicken is approximately 30-35 minutes. After browning the chicken for 5-7 minutes, simmer it for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
The chicken is done when it's no longer pink inside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
You can substitute chicken with bone-in parts, like thighs or drumsticks. For olives, green or Kalamata olives can be used, and you may replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook it fully and then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving, ensuring it reaches the proper temperature throughout.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- If fresh lemons are unavailable, preserved lemons can be a great substitute and will add an extra depth of flavor.
- Make sure to brown the chicken well to develop a deeper flavor profile.
- You can use a Dutch oven or tagine for a more authentic cooking method.
- Serve with couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 580kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3.65g
Sugar 4.05g
Fat 50g
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