Moroccan Chicken with Preserved Lemons and Olives

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Moroccan Chicken ingredient :

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5kg), cut into pieces
• 2 preserved lemons, quartered (available in specialty or Middle Eastern stores)
• 150g green or purple olives (pitted or whole)
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 bunch of fresh cilantro (coriander), chopped
• 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 250ml water or chicken stock
• Salt to taste

Moroccan Chicken Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken:
   • In a large bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, paprika, saffron, half of the chopped cilantro, and half of the chopped parsley.
   • Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken pieces.
   • Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the fridge for better flavor.
2. Cooking the chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or a tajine over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
   • Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them lightly on all sides (about 10 minutes).
   • Add the cinnamon stick, preserved lemons, and olives to the pot.
3. Simmering:
   • Pour in the water or chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
   • Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it cook gently for 45-60 minutes, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
   • If using a tajine, the cooking time may be slightly longer.
4. Finishing:
   • Once the chicken is cooked, adjust the seasoning with salt and add the remaining chopped parsley and cilantro.
   • Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Serving:
   • Serve the chicken hot, garnished with the preserved lemons and olives, accompanied by couscous, bread, or rice.

Moroccan Chicken Conclusion:

This flavorful dish combines the brightness of preserved lemons with the richness of spices, making it a classic Moroccan meal. Enjoy!