Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon: How to Make It Perfect

If you’re craving something juicy, flavorful, and packed with bold spices, then Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon is about to become your new favorite recipe. This Moroccan classic brings together tender chicken, zesty preserved lemons, olives, and a beautiful blend of warm spices like turmeric and ginger—all slow-cooked into a fragrant, saucy masterpiece.

Here’s a fun fact: while the tagine refers to the dish, it’s also the name of the unique clay pot it’s traditionally cooked in. The pot’s conical lid helps keep the steam in, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love. But don’t worry—you can make this dish perfectly even if you don’t own a traditional tagine.

What makes Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon so special? It’s easy to prepare, great for meal prepping, and a total crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it brings bold Moroccan flair to your table with minimal fuss.

If you’ve tried our Apricot Lamb Tagine, you already know how comforting Moroccan cuisine can be. This chicken version is even quicker to prepare and uses pantry-friendly ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels. Let’s dive into this delicious dish!

What is Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon?

So, what exactly is Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon, and why does it sound like something served at a royal feast? Great question! It’s a traditional Moroccan chicken dish slow-cooked with preserved lemons, green or purple olives, and warm spices. And yes—it tastes even better than it sounds.

Now, why the “preserved” lemon? Because someone in Morocco, ages ago, figured out that fermenting lemons in salt makes them ultra-zesty and perfect for adding depth to savory dishes. And the name? Let’s just say that whoever combined chicken and preserved lemon definitely believed that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”

Still curious? You’ve got to try it and experience this bold, comforting dish for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon

There are plenty of reasons why Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon has earned a spot in Moroccan kitchens for generations—and now it’s your turn to discover the magic.

1. A Burst of Bold, Savory Flavor

The real star here is the preserved lemon, which brings a rich, citrusy tang that cuts through the richness of the chicken and pairs beautifully with olives and earthy spices. Add saffron or turmeric, and you’ve got a golden, aromatic sauce that will have you licking your plate.

2. Easy on the Wallet

You don’t need fancy cuts of meat or exotic tools to pull this off. A few chicken thighs, some preserved lemons (store-bought or homemade), and a handful of pantry staples—voilà! You’ve got a restaurant-quality dish that costs far less than takeout.

3. It’s All About the Extras

Top it with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or pair it with fluffy couscous to elevate the whole experience. If you loved our Moroccan Chickpea Stew, you’ll adore this chicken version with its citrusy twist.

Ready to taste Morocco in your own kitchen? Let’s go!

How to Make Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon

Quick Overview

Don’t let the exotic name fool you—this dish is incredibly easy to make. With about 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking, this recipe brings tender, juicy chicken and bold Moroccan flavors to your table in under an hour. The combination of preserved lemon, olives, and aromatic spices is what sets this dish apart.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed)
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 preserved lemon, quartered (seeds removed)
• 1 cup green or purple olives (pitted)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and golden. Stir in the garlic and spices (ginger, turmeric, pepper, salt) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the pot and cook for 3–5 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This helps lock in flavor and gives the dish a richer texture.

Step 3: Add the Lemons and Olives
Tuck the preserved lemon quarters and olives around the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Let everything simmer for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The sauce should thicken slightly and become deeply aromatic.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with couscous, rice, or crusty bread.

What to Serve Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon With

This tagine is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Here are a few tried-and-true pairings:

• Couscous or Bulgur – Fluffy grains soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Crusty Bread or Flatbread – Perfect for scooping and soaking up the juices.
• Simple Moroccan Carrot Salad – Adds a fresh and slightly sweet contrast.
• Mint Tea or Light White Wine – For a refreshing beverage pairing.

Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon

Want to make your tagine absolutely unforgettable? Here’s how:

• Use bone-in, skinless chicken thighs – They’re juicier and more flavorful than breasts.
• Don’t skip the preserved lemon – It’s the signature flavor. Can’t find any? Make your own with salt and lemon juice!
• Let it simmer low and slow – Patience is key to deep, rich flavor.
• Spice it up – Add chili flakes or harissa if you like a little heat.
• No tagine pot? A Dutch oven or heavy skillet with a lid works beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish gets even better the next day.

• Storage: Let the tagine cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, but stovetop keeps the texture better.

Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon is more than just a recipe—it’s a flavorful experience that brings Moroccan tradition right to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing dinner guests, this dish checks all the boxes: easy, affordable, bold, and beautiful.

Try it tonight—and don’t forget to explore our other Moroccan recipes for more spice-filled adventures!