Indulge in the vibrant and zesty flavors of Morocco with this Lemon and Olive Chicken recipe. A perfect harmony of tangy preserved lemons, briny olives, and succulent chicken, this dish is a staple in Moroccan cuisine. It's an aromatic feast that brings a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your dining table, effortlessly blending sour, sweet, and savory notes.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 portion
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): 8 pieces (about 1000g or 2.2 pounds or 35 ounces)
- Olive oil: 30ml (2 tablespoons)
- Onion, finely sliced: 150g (5.29 ounces)
- Garlic cloves, minced: 3 (about 15g)
- Preserved lemons, sliced: 80g (2.82 ounces)
- Green olives, pitted: 100g (3.5 ounces)
- Chicken stock: 240ml (1 cup)
- Ground cumin: 5g (1 teaspoon)
- Ground coriander: 5g (1 teaspoon)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: 30g (1 ounce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, and coriander.
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and brown the chicken on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add preserved lemons, olives, and chicken stock.
- Simmer: Cover and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Quality of Preserved Lemons: Use high-quality preserved lemons for an authentic flavor.
- Adjusting the Tartness: Modify the amount of preserved lemon based on your taste preference.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with couscous or flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh lemons instead?
Preserved lemons offer a unique flavor, but in a pinch, fresh lemon zest can be used.
How to store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, but cooking times may vary based on the cut.