Moroccan tagines are beloved for their vibrant flavors, slow-cooked richness, and aromatic spices. This Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Lemon and Fries brings together tender, juicy chicken, zesty preserved lemon, and golden, crispy fries. This hearty dish is ideal for family dinners, special gatherings, or any time you’re craving a taste of North Africa at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Tagine:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 4-6 chicken thighs)
- 1 preserved lemon, rinsed and quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
- 3-4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup water
For the Fries:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin fries
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Preparing the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine the turmeric, ginger, paprika, cumin, garlic, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until it forms a thick marinade.
- Rub the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours for best results).
2: Cooking the Tagine
- Place a tagine pot or a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add a bit of olive oil and cook the onion until soft and translucent.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and sear on each side for 3-5 minutes until golden.
- Add water, cover, and allow the chicken to simmer gently for 45 minutes. Halfway through cooking, add the preserved lemon and green olives, letting the flavors blend.
3: Preparing the Fries
- While the chicken cooks, heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the potato slices until they’re crispy and golden. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Season with salt.
4: Final Touches and Serving
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and cilantro.
- Serve the tagine hot, garnished with the crispy fries on top, alongside fresh bread or couscous if desired.
Nutritional Benefits, Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Chicken Tagine with Lemon and Fries provides a well-rounded meal. Chicken provides a source of lean protein that’s crucial for growth and energy levels. The preserved lemon contributes a nice dose of vitamin C, while olives offer a healthy fat content. Additionally, the fried potatoes add a comforting element to this nutritious dish, making it more appealing to kids.
Serve this tagine hot, with freshly fried fries on top for added crunch. You can also pair it with a side of fluffy couscous, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.
You can keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a covered pot over low heat or microwave in portions until heated through.
Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Lemon and Fries is a delicious and aromatic dish that your family will love. Its blend of spices and zesty flavors make it a fantastic choice for dinner, bringing a taste of Morocco to your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to explore more family-friendly recipes on our website at EasyKidBox.com. From lunchbox ideas to delicious dinners and fun snacks, you’ll find a variety of recipes to make mealtime easy and enjoyable for everyone.