Moroccan Chicken and Orange Tagine – Easy Mediterranean Dinner Recipe
Moroccan chicken and orange tagine is a fragrant, flavorful dish that brings the taste of North Africa to your table. Tender chicken simmered with sweet oranges, briny olives, and aromatic spices creates a comforting, vibrant recipe that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.
Equipment
- Tagine pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board & knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Small skillet (for toasting spices)
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of saffron threads
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 sweet oranges, sliced or zested
- ½ cup green olives
- 1 preserved lemon, quartered (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Rub chicken with turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in tagine or Dutch oven. Cook onions and garlic until golden.
- Add Chicken & Spices: Place chicken in pot. Add saffron and pour in broth. Stir gently.
- Simmer: Cover and cook on low heat for 1–1.5 hours until chicken is tender.
- Add Oranges: In final 15 minutes, add orange slices or zest.
- Finish & Garnish: Stir in olives and preserved lemon. Garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve: Pair with couscous or crusty bread.
Notes
- Add dates for extra sweetness.
- Spicy version: stir in harissa.
- Vegetarian option: substitute chickpeas for chicken.
- Modern twist: serve with quinoa instead of couscous.
- Always add citrus near the end to preserve brightness.
- Toast spices lightly before simmering for deeper flavor.