Mary Berry Chicken Tagine

Embark on a culinary adventure with our delightful recipe for Mary Berry Chicken Tagine, a classic Moroccan dish brimming with aromatic spices, succulent chicken, and vibrant vegetables. This staple of North African cuisine, typically slow-cooked in a distinctive clay pot known as a tagine, offers an unforgettable dining experience right at home.

What Makes Traditional Chicken Tagine Unique?

Traditional chicken tagine features marinated chicken slow-cooked with a medley of aromatic spices, a variety of vegetables, and sometimes dried fruits such as apricots or prunes. Its unique name originates from the special conical-shaped clay pot used in Moroccan cooking, the tagine.

The Advantages of Cooking in a Tagine

The design of a tagine enables steam to circulate uniformly during cooking, keeping the ingredients juicy and tender. This slow-cooking technique facilitates the blending of flavors, creating a delectable, richly spiced dish.

The Art of Layering in Tagine

In a tagine, the chicken is typically layered at the bottom, followed by vegetables and aromatics. Finally, spices and herbs crown the top, allowing for even cooking and infusion of flavors.

Mary Berry Chicken Tagine Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (150 g) pitted green olives
• 1/4 cup (40 g) dried apricots, chopped
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Cooked couscous or rice, for serving

How To Make Mary Berry Chicken Tagine:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken pieces to the skillet, browning them on all sides, for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the spices: cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let them cook for 1-2 minutes until they release their aroma.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, green olives, dried apricots, and chicken broth to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve over cooked couscous or rice, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Recognizing When Your Chicken Tagine is Ready

Your chicken tagine is ready when the chicken becomes tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Additionally, the sauce should have thickened, and its flavor should be rich and well-developed, typically after 45-60 minutes of simmering on low heat.

Recipe Tips

• For an authentic touch, use a traditional tagine pot for cooking. A Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid can be a good substitute.
• To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken in spices for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking, allowing some liquid to evaporate.

Chicken Tagine Variations And Substitutions

• You can replace chicken with lamb, beef, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Try adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Consider using different dried fruits, such as prunes, raisins, or dates, for a unique flavor twist.

What To Serve With Chicken Tagine?

Traditionally, chicken tagine is served with couscous or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also complement the dish with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Chicken Tagine

Leftover chicken tagine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to freeze it, let the tagine cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the tagine in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can heat it in a slow cooker or microwave.

 

FAQ Section

Mary Berry Chicken Tagine Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 10g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Potassium: 680mg

Try Other Mary Berry Recipes:

• Mary Berry Lemon Courgette Cake
• Mary Berry Lime And Coconut Cake
• Caraway Seed Cake Mary Berry