There are dishes that do more than satisfy hunger—they tell stories, carry traditions, and create bonds around the table. One of these extraordinary dishes is Chicken Tagine with Olives, a Moroccan classic that has captivated food lovers around the world. Rich in flavor, infused with warm spices, and slow-cooked to perfection, this dish showcases the essence of Moroccan cuisine: simple ingredients transformed into something magical.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, cooking for your family, or exploring new recipes from around the globe, Chicken Tagine with Olives will instantly elevate your table. With its combination of tender chicken, briny olives, preserved lemon, and a harmony of spices, it is a dish that balances savory, tangy, and aromatic notes beautifully.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the history of tagine cooking, the detailed recipe, required ingredients and utensils, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, serving ideas, nutritional value, and why this dish deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.

What Is Chicken Tagine with Olives?

A tagine is both a cooking vessel and the dish prepared in it. The traditional clay pot, with its conical lid, has been used in Morocco for centuries to create slow-cooked meals that retain moisture and flavor.

Chicken Tagine with Olives is one of Morocco’s most beloved versions. It features:

Bone-in chicken pieces, often marinated with saffron, ginger, and garlic.
Briny green or purple olives for contrast.
Preserved lemon, which adds a unique tang and fragrance.
A blend of spices like cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and black pepper.

The result is a dish that is simultaneously comforting and exotic.

Ingredients for Chicken Tagine with Olives

Here’s everything you need to prepare an authentic Chicken Tagine with Olives:

Main Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into pieces
2 medium onions, finely sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 preserved lemons (rind only, seeds removed, thinly sliced)
1 cup green or purple olives (pitted if desired)
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Spice Blend

1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp saffron threads (optional but traditional)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Liquid

1 cup chicken broth or water

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make an authentic Chicken Tagine with Olives, you’ll need:

Tagine pot (traditional clay or modern ceramic) OR a Dutch oven/cast iron pot
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
Mixing bowl (for marinating chicken)
Wooden spoon (for stirring)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, pepper, saffron, and salt.
Rub the chicken pieces thoroughly with this spice paste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This ensures the flavors penetrate the meat.

2: Prepare the Tagine Base

Heat a tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add sliced onions to the base and drizzle with olive oil.
Lay the marinated chicken pieces on top of the onions.

3: Add Aromatics

Sprinkle chopped cilantro and parsley over the chicken.
Pour in the chicken broth.

4: Slow Cook the Tagine

Cover with the tagine lid.
Cook gently on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

5: Add Preserved Lemons & Olives

About 20 minutes before the end of cooking, add the preserved lemons and olives.
Continue cooking until the flavors meld together.

6: Serve Hot

Serve directly in the tagine pot for an authentic presentation.
Accompany with warm Moroccan bread or fluffy couscous.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Chicken Tagine

Use bone-in chicken – It keeps the meat juicier and more flavorful during slow cooking.
Don’t rush the process – Tagine is about slow simmering; resist the urge to cook it quickly.
Experiment with olives – Some prefer green olives for brightness, while purple ones add a deeper, earthy taste.
Preserved lemon is essential – Don’t substitute with fresh lemon; preserved lemon offers a unique umami tang.
Cook in a tagine if possible – The conical lid circulates steam, concentrating flavor.

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 360
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g
Vitamin C: 35% DV
Iron: 15% DV

This makes Chicken Tagine with Olives a well-balanced dish that is both nutritious and filling.

Cultural Significance

In Morocco, Chicken Tagine with Olives is often served during family gatherings, weddings, and special celebrations. It embodies hospitality, bringing people together around one pot. Traditionally, it’s eaten communally—guests gather around the tagine, breaking bread and scooping up the tender chicken and sauce.

This cultural aspect makes the dish not just food, but an experience of togetherness.

Variations of Chicken Tagine

Chicken Tagine with Prunes – Sweeter, often served at weddings.
Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Almonds – Combines fruity and nutty flavors.
Spicy Chicken Tagine – With harissa for a fiery kick.
Vegetable Tagine – For a vegetarian-friendly alternative.

But the Chicken Tagine with Olives remains the classic, savory version that is both versatile and universally loved.

Pairing Suggestions

Bread – Moroccan khobz is perfect for scooping up the sauce.
Couscous – Light and fluffy, balances the richness.
Mint Tea – A refreshing drink to accompany the meal.
Side Salad – Fresh tomato and cucumber salad complements the savory flavors.

Why You Should Try Chicken Tagine with Olives

It’s a healthy one-pot meal.
Easy to make once ingredients are prepared.
Perfect for family dinners or dinner parties.
Brings a taste of Morocco straight to your kitchen.

Conclusion

Chicken Tagine with Olives is more than just a recipe—it’s a journey into Moroccan culture and flavors. With its tender chicken, zesty preserved lemons, and briny olives, this dish is the perfect balance of richness and freshness. Whether you’re new to Moroccan cooking or a seasoned foodie, this recipe will inspire you to slow down, cook with intention, and savor every bite.