Moroccan Chicken Stew
Moroccan Chicken Stew is a comforting and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Morocco to your table. This hearty stew features tender chicken pieces cooked in a fragrant blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric. The addition of carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, and a touch of preserved lemon creates a deliciously balanced combination of flavors. Served over couscous or rice, this stew is a complete and satisfying meal that will transport you to the vibrant culinary traditions of Morocco.
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 min
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a combination)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp Ras el Hanout spice mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3/4 cup green olives (optional)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 preserved lemon, rinsed and chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cooked couscous or rice, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Step 3: Add Spices and Vegetables
- Add the Ras el hanout, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
- Add the sliced carrots and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
- Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot.
- Add the olives
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- If using preserved lemon, add it to the pot.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.