| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr 20 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 375 | 22g | 5g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 4g | 28g | 1.5g |
Why I Love Indian Chicken Tagine
When I first discovered the Chicken Tagine recipe, it felt like uncovering a hidden gem amidst the diverse culinary treasures of the world. Living in Montana, my culinary roots are deeply tied to rustic, hearty dishes. Yet, my love for new flavors continually fuels my journey into the depths of global cuisines. Chicken Tagine, with its rich blend of spices and succulent chicken, quickly became a beloved staple in my kitchen. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the heart of Morocco with every bite.
A Symphony of Spices
The beauty of Chicken Tagine lies in its intricate dance of flavors. The ground ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, and coriander form a warm, aromatic base that is both comforting and exotic. These spices, when combined, don’t just flavor the chicken, but they tell a story of culinary traditions that date back centuries. For me, the subtle heat from the paprika and cayenne pepper adds a dimension that makes every bite more intriguing. It’s reminiscent of the spicy undertones found in some Native American dishes, albeit with a unique twist.
Inspirations and Comparisons
Drawing inspiration from chefs like Yotam Ottolenghi, who masterfully blend Middle Eastern spices and flavors, this recipe also shares some similarities with Indian curries. The use of dried fruits, such as apricots, reminds me of traditional Indian korma, where sweetness and spice create a perfect harmony. This Chicken Tagine can be a delightful alternative to these dishes if you’re looking to diversify your palate.
One of my favorite pairings with Chicken Tagine is a simple, yet flavorful, couscous. The light, fluffy grains absorb the rich, spiced sauce beautifully, making every forkful a perfect bite. Additionally, serving it with a fresh salad, like tabbouleh, can provide a refreshing contrast to the deep, savory notes of the tagine.
This dish is not just about the ingredients or the method; it’s about the emotion and the journey behind it. Each time I prepare Chicken Tagine, I am reminded of how food can be a gateway to different cultures and traditions, all while bringing loved ones around the table. If you’re ready to embark on a culinary journey that blends tradition with a touch of adventure, I urge you to give this Chicken Tagine recipe a try.
What You’ll Need
- 2 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dried apricots, halved
- ½://yourgourmetguru.com/lemon-recipes/” title=”lemon” data-wpil-keyword-link=”linked” data-wpil-monitor-id=”21754″>lemon, cut into wedges
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Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step Two
In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Four
Stir in the ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cloves, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
Step Five
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Season with salt to taste.
Step Six
Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Step Seven
Add the dried apricots and green olives to the pot. Cover and let the tagine simmer gently over low heat for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step Eight
Uncover and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Let cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step Nine
Serve the Chicken Tagine hot, garnished with lemon wedges for a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy!
