Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine is a delightful, rich, and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with a melange of spices and fresh ingredients, creating a flavorful North African-inspired meal that will transport your taste buds on an unforgettable culinary journey.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine is a modern twist on a traditional Moroccan dish, where chicken is slow-cooked in a tagine (or a large pot, if you don’t have one) with a combination of spices, dried fruits like apricots or raisins, and fresh vegetables like onions and tomatoes. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, savory-sweet sauce that is perfect to serve over couscous or rice. Jamie’s version stays true to the original flavors while being approachable for home cooks, focusing on simplicity, fresh ingredients, and a balanced flavor profile.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless for a tender, juicy texture)
• Olive oil (for browning the chicken)
• Onion (chopped for base flavor)
• Garlic (minced for a rich, aromatic flavor)
• Ground ginger (for a warm, slightly spicy note)
• Ground cumin (earthy and fragrant)
• Ground turmeric (adds both color and depth)
• Ground cinnamon (for a hint of sweetness and spice)
• Smoked paprika (optional for a smoky touch)
• Saffron strands (for an authentic touch, optional but adds elegance)
• Canned chopped tomatoes (for the tangy base of the sauce)
• Dried apricots (for sweetness and texture contrast)
• Chicken stock (to create the cooking liquid)
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) (for garnish)
• Lemon (zested and juiced, to add brightness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For serving:

• Couscous or rice (to absorb all those wonderful flavors)

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Tagine pot or large heavy-bottomed Dutch oven (if you don’t have a traditional tagine, a Dutch oven or a wide, heavy pot will do just fine)
• Sharp knife (for chopping the onions, garlic, and chicken)
• Chopping board
• Wooden spoon (for stirring and sautéing)
• Measuring spoons (for accurate seasoning)
• Lemon zester (optional, for zesting the lemon)
• Small bowl (for preparing saffron or soaking dried fruits)
• Serving dish (for presenting the dish elegantly)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine?

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   • First, cut the chicken thighs into chunks (or leave them whole if you prefer). Dice the onions and garlic finely.
   • Zest and juice the lemon, and chop the dried apricots into small pieces.

2. Brown The Chicken

   • Heat olive oil in your tagine pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches, searing them until golden brown on all sides. Remove them from the pot and set aside.

3. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add The Spices

   • Sprinkle in the ground ginger, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, smoked paprika (optional), and a pinch of saffron (if using). Stir everything together to allow the spices to bloom and coat the onions and garlic.

5. Build The Sauce

   • Stir in the chopped tomatoes, apricots, and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

6. Return The Chicken

   • Add the browned chicken back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and let it simmer gently on low heat for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

7. Garnish And Serve

   • Once the chicken is done, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped coriander. Serve the tagine over couscous or rice to soak up the rich sauce.

Expert Tips

1. Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs tend to stay more juicy and tender compared to boneless cuts. The bone adds flavor and moisture as the dish slow-cooks.
2. Add More Vegetables: If you like more texture, add vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine strikes a sweet-savory balance, but feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more dried fruit (like dates) or even a touch of honey, depending on your taste preferences.
4. Make It Ahead: This dish actually improves in flavor when made the day before, so if you’re entertaining or meal prepping, prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.
5. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with hearty vegetables such as eggplant, mushrooms, or chickpeas.
6. Use a Tagine Pot: If you have one, a traditional tagine pot is ideal because it helps retain moisture and intensifies the flavors during cooking.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine is a wonderfully aromatic and flavorful dish that brings the bold spices and rich culinary traditions of Morocco to your kitchen. It’s the perfect combination of tender chicken, vibrant spices, and natural sweetness from the apricots, all simmered together in a delicious sauce.

Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this dish is simple yet impressive enough for any occasion. Pair it with couscous or rice for a hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine is a vibrant, flavorful dish, combining aromatic spices with tender chicken and sweet fruit. However, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to experiment with different variations that align with your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have on hand. Here are some easy variations you can try to customize Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine:

1. Vegetarian Tagine: For a meat-free version, simply swap out the chicken for hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and cauliflower. You can also add protein-rich chickpeas or lentils to maintain the texture and heartiness of the dish. Adding a handful of spinach or kale at the end will introduce some vibrant greens into the mix.
2. Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a spicier tagine, boost the heat by adding fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of harissa paste. Harissa, a North African chili paste, will infuse the dish with deep, smoky heat that complements the other spices beautifully.
3. Citrus Infusion: To add an extra layer of brightness, use the zest and juice of lemons or oranges in the recipe. The acidity will balance the richness of the dish and heighten the flavors, especially if you add orange zest while cooking and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
4. Dried Fruits: Jamie Oliver’s original recipe calls for apricots, but you can easily swap them for other dried fruits like raisins, prunes, or dates. These fruits will give your tagine a wonderful balance of sweetness that works well with the savory spices. You can also use a mix of different dried fruits to create a complex flavor profile.
5. Herb Variations: While the traditional tagine uses cilantro and parsley, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or thyme. Mint, in particular, will add a refreshing note to the dish, while thyme introduces an earthy depth that works well with the chicken and vegetables.
6. Nutty Addition: Toasted almonds or pine nuts can be added at the end for an extra crunch and rich nutty flavor. This simple tweak will bring a lovely contrast to the tender chicken and the sweet, juicy fruits.

These variations allow you to make the dish your own, transforming the recipe into whatever suits your mood, dietary needs, or what’s available in your pantry. Whether you’re making a vegetarian-friendly option or spicing it up with extra heat, Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine is a wonderfully adaptable dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Chicken Tagine, with its rich combination of spices, chicken, and vegetables, makes for fantastic leftovers. However, to preserve its flavor and texture, here are the best practices to follow when storing your tagine:

1. Cool Before Storing: Allow the chicken tagine to cool down at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring it to the fridge. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can affect the texture of the dish.
2. Airtight Containers: Store your leftovers in airtight containers to lock in freshness and prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge from affecting the dish. Using glass containers can also help retain the flavor better than plastic.
3. Refrigeration: You can store your chicken tagine in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing it in containers to avoid bacterial growth.
4. Freezing Leftovers: If you want to keep your tagine for longer, freezing is a good option. Portion the dish into smaller, freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. You can freeze the tagine for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
5. Reheating: Reheat your chicken tagine on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce if it thickens during storage. If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish to prevent drying out, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
6. Separate Ingredients for Best Storage: If you have rice or couscous as part of your meal, store them separately from the tagine sauce. This will prevent the grains from absorbing too much of the sauce, making them soggy. You can store rice or couscous in individual portions for easier reheating.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your chicken tagine stays just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or future enjoyment.

What Goes Well With Chicken Tagine?

Chicken tagine is a hearty and flavorful dish, making it a versatile base to pair with various sides. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh to balance out the richness or hearty accompaniments that complement the flavors, here are some excellent pairing options:

1. Couscous: The classic pairing with chicken tagine is couscous. The fluffy, light grains soak up the sauce, providing a perfect balance to the flavorful stew. You can serve it plain or enhance it with toasted almonds, fresh herbs, or dried fruits to add extra layers of flavor.
2. Rice: For a simple yet satisfying side, serve the tagine with steamed white rice or a pilaf. If you want to add more flavor to the rice, you could cook it in chicken broth and mix in some fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro.
3. Flatbreads: Soft, warm flatbreads, such as pita or Moroccan khobz, are perfect for dipping into the sauce and soaking up every last bit of flavor from the tagine. The doughy texture of the bread pairs beautifully with the spices in the dish.
4. Salads: A fresh salad can cut through the richness of the tagine. Try a light cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple green salad with arugula, mixed greens, and a tangy dressing. A Moroccan-style carrot salad with cumin and coriander also works wonderfully as a refreshing contrast.
5. Yogurt or Labneh: A dollop of plain yogurt or labneh (strained yogurt) can help cool the spiciness and add a creamy richness that complements the chicken. You can sprinkle some mint or cilantro on top for an extra pop of flavor.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or parsnips, bring earthy sweetness that works beautifully with the savory notes of the tagine. You can roast them with similar spices used in the tagine for a harmonious flavor profile.
7. Olives: Moroccan tagines often feature olives, which add a briny and tangy flavor to balance the richness of the chicken and the sweetness of the dried fruits. A small bowl of green olives or a mix of black and green olives is an excellent accompaniment.
8. Preserved Lemons: This is a traditional Moroccan condiment that adds a burst of intense citrus flavor to tagine. You can chop preserved lemons and sprinkle them on top of the tagine before serving, or serve them on the side for guests to add as they wish.

Each of these sides will elevate your chicken tagine experience, providing a delightful contrast in flavors and textures to complement the rich and savory stew.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine is a delightful and versatile dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and sweet dried fruits, making it an ideal meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its depth of flavor, it can be easily tailored to suit your personal tastes, whether you’re looking for a spicier version, a vegetarian alternative, or a citrusy twist.

Storing leftovers is a breeze with simple practices that ensure your tagine remains delicious, and there’s no shortage of options when it comes to pairing sides. From couscous to fresh salads and creamy yogurt, there are plenty of options to round out the meal. Whether enjoyed freshly made or as leftovers, chicken tagine is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Required For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s chicken tagine recipe typically requires chicken thighs, onions, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, dried apricots, olives, preserved lemons, chicken stock, and fresh coriander. You will also need olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine?

The total cooking time for Jamie Oliver’s chicken tagine is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes browning the chicken and then simmering everything together until tender.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead Of Thighs For This Recipe?

Although chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for thighs, they are leaner and may dry out more easily when cooking for a longer period. For the best results, it’s recommended to stick to chicken thighs, which remain moist and flavorful.

What Is A Tagine, And Why Is It Used For This Recipe?

A tagine is both the name of a traditional North African cooking vessel and a dish. It has a conical lid that helps circulate steam, making the dish incredibly tender. While the dish can be made in any pot, using a tagine adds authenticity and helps with even cooking.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s chicken tagine in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same preparation steps and cook the dish on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well developed.

Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine?

Yes, a vegetarian version of the chicken tagine can be made by substituting the chicken with hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, squash, and carrots. You can also add chickpeas for added protein.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine?

Jamie Oliver’s chicken tagine pairs wonderfully with couscous, rice, or flatbreads to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables can also make a great side dish.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine?

Yes, you can freeze Jamie Oliver’s chicken tagine. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.

What Can I Substitute For Preserved Lemons In This Recipe?

If you can’t find preserved lemons, you can substitute with a combination of fresh lemon zest and a small amount of salt. While it won’t have the exact same flavor, it will add a tangy and salty element to the dish.

How Spicy Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Tagine?

Jamie Oliver’s chicken tagine is not typically very spicy, but it does have a warm, aromatic flavor from spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. If you prefer more heat, you can add chili peppers or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.