Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

In this delicious recipe, we are preparing Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots. This bright dish brings together the vibrant flavors of preserved lemons and sweet apricots to elevate simple chicken into a culinary treasure.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This Chicken Tagine is not just a treat for the taste buds; it is also a healthy version of a classic Moroccan dish. This recipe is great for meal prep and can be a lighter option for busy weeknights. The chicken is high in protein, which can help you feel full longer, making it a good choice for weight loss. Plus, with the use of wholesome ingredients like dried fruits and spices, this dish can provide heart-healthy benefits, keeping you both satisfied and nourished.

HOW TO MAKE Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Tajine or large pot
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Stirring spoon
• Serving dishes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 preserved lemons, cut into quarters
• 150g dried apricots, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 400ml chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large tajine or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, ground ginger, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides.
5. Stir in the preserved lemons and dried apricots.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
8. Serve with couscous or bread.

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HOW TO SERVE Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

When serving this delectable Chicken Tagine, consider your portions for a balanced meal. A single serving of chicken, along with a scoop of couscous or a slice of whole-grain bread, makes for a filling and nutritious dish. Due to the high protein content from the chicken and the natural sugars from the apricots, you will feel satisfied without overindulging. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

This Chicken Tagine can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, place it in an airtight container. If you want to freeze the leftovers, allow the tagine to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving the Chicken Tagine with a side of quinoa or brown rice. Both options are nutritious, high in fiber, and provide a healthy balance alongside the protein and flavors of the tagine. A simple side salad, like one made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed with a light vinaigrette, would also complement this dish nicely, adding freshness and crunch.

VARIATIONS

• Healthier Version: Replace the chicken with skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content. This makes it a lighter option while still high in protein.
• High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of couscous. This will keep the dish low in carbohydrates and high in fiber.
• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer using an air fryer, sear the chicken pieces in a pan first, then transfer to an air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, then add the preserved lemons and apricots. Mix in the broth after cooking, allowing for the flavors to meld.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Tagine in advance?
   Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. It can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight as it sits.

2. Is this Chicken Tagine recipe suitable for diabetics?
   Yes, this recipe can be diabetic-friendly, especially if you focus on portion control and pair it with whole grains like brown rice or quinoa instead of white pasta or rice.

3. What is the best way to store leftovers?
   Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for longer storage.

4. What are the health benefits of preserved lemons?
   Preserved lemons not only bring unique flavor to the dish, but they also offer vitamin C and other nutrients. They can aid in digestion and boost immunity, making this tagine a healthy choice.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

This Chicken Tagine is perfect for meal prep. You can chop the vegetables, measure out the spices, and even cut your chicken pieces in advance. By prepping everything the night before or earlier in the day, you can save time and enjoy a healthy, dinner-ready meal without the hassle. Just cook it all together when you’re ready for a nutritious, high-protein meal in about an hour!

With its complex flavors and healthy ingredients, Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots is a delicious option that everyone will love. So give this recipe a try and bring a little taste of Morocco to your dinner table!

Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons and Apricots

This vibrant Chicken Tagine combines preserved lemons and sweet apricots to create a healthy and flavorful Moroccan dish.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Moroccan

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 whole whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 preserved lemons, cut into quarters
• 150 g dried apricots, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 400 ml chicken broth
• for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley

Method

 

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large tajine or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, ground ginger, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides.
5. Stir in the preserved lemons and dried apricots.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
8. Serve with couscous or bread.

Notes

This Chicken Tagine can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. For a healthier version, use skinless chicken breasts. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice instead of couscous.