Moroccan chicken with green olives and lemon

Savor the exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine with this delightful chicken recipe featuring tender chicken meat, green olives, lemons, and a harmonious blend of spices including cinnamon, ginger, and paprika. Cooked in a rich chicken broth, this dish promises a burst of aromatic and tantalizing flavors in every bite.

10 May 2025
Cook time 55 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp cinnamon
1 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

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:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- 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.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- 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.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
- 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.
4. Brown the Chicken:
- 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.
5. Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the lemon juice and lemon slices to the pan.
6. Cook the Dish:
- 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.
7. Add the Olives:
- About 5 minutes before the end of cooking, add the green olives to the pan. Continue to simmer until heated through.
8. Serve:
- 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.

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.

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.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 580kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3.65g
Sugar 4.05g
Fat 50g

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