Chicken Tagine with Couscous

Chicken Tagine with Couscous and Vegetables: A Flavorful North African Delight

Tagine is a traditional North African dish that showcases the diverse and rich culinary heritage of the region. This slow-cooked stew, often made with chicken, lamb, or beef, is simmered with a blend of aromatic spices and vegetables. Paired with couscous, a staple in North African cuisine, Chicken Tagine with Couscous and Vegetables is a meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful. This dish reflects the essence of Moroccan cooking, which emphasizes the balance between savory, sweet, and spicy elements. Whether you’re new to tagine or an experienced cook, this recipe will guide you through the process of preparing this aromatic and comforting dish.

Ingredients for Chicken Tagine with Couscous and Vegetables

For the chicken tagine:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional but highly recommended)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved
• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, quartered

For the couscous:

• 2 cups couscous
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the vegetables:

• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 zucchinis, chopped into rounds
• 1 cup butternut squash or pumpkin, peeled and cubed
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Chicken Tagine

   • Begin by heating the olive oil in a large tagine pot or a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat. If you do not have a tagine pot, a Dutch oven will also work well for this recipe.
   • Add the chicken pieces, season them generously with salt and pepper, and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

2. Spice Infusion

   • Once the onions are softened, add the ground cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, ginger, coriander, and saffron (if using). Stir the spices well to toast them for about 1 minute. This will help release their aromatic oils and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
   • Return the chicken pieces to the pot, coating them with the spices and onions. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered with liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Adding Vegetables and Dried Fruits

   • Add the chopped tomatoes, apricots, and olives to the pot. Stir gently, then cover and let the chicken simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes. This will allow the chicken to become tender and absorb the flavors of the spices and dried fruits.
   • After 30 minutes, add the carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir to incorporate the vegetables, and let them cook in the stew for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still retain their color and texture.
   • Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.

4. Cooking the Couscous

   • While the chicken and vegetables are simmering, prepare the couscous. In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Once boiling, add the salt and olive oil or butter.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the couscous. Cover the pot with a lid and let the couscous steam for about 5 minutes. Afterward, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Add chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor, if desired.

5. Final Touches

   • Once the chicken and vegetables are fully cooked and tender, remove the pot from the heat. Squeeze the lemon wedges over the stew to add a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
   • Garnish the chicken tagine with freshly chopped cilantro and parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish.

6. Serving

   • To serve, place a portion of couscous on each plate. Top with a generous helping of the chicken tagine, ensuring each serving gets a mix of the chicken, vegetables, olives, and apricots. The couscous will soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.
   • Tagine is often enjoyed with warm, crusty bread for dipping, but it is equally satisfying on its own.

The Rich Flavors of Chicken Tagine with Couscous

The combination of chicken, vegetables, dried apricots, and olives is a hallmark of Moroccan cooking. The natural sweetness of the apricots contrasts beautifully with the savory depth of the chicken and the briny notes from the olives. The spices — cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and saffron — create an aromatic base that perfumes the dish with each simmering hour. The result is a dish that is as satisfying as it is complex, with layers of flavors that build and evolve with every bite.

Couscous, the perfect accompaniment, is light yet hearty, making it the ideal partner for the rich, flavorful tagine. The fluffy texture of the couscous complements the tender chicken and the medley of vegetables, while soaking up the savory broth.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken Tagine with Couscous and Vegetables is a well-rounded meal that provides a rich source of protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and complex carbohydrates from the couscous. Additionally, the dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the carrots, zucchini, and squash. The use of olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, while the dried apricots contribute a dose of natural sweetness along with important nutrients like potassium and iron. The spices not only enhance the flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish as beneficial as it is delicious.

Tips and Variations

1. Substituting Chicken: If you prefer lamb or beef, these proteins can be used in place of chicken. Lamb is particularly popular in Moroccan tagines, providing a richer flavor.
2. Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your personal preferences. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Vegetable Variations: You can customize the vegetable selection based on what is in season or what you have on hand. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, or eggplant would all work well in this tagine.
4. Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, you can omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like cauliflower, eggplant, and chickpeas for protein.

Conclusion

Chicken Tagine with Couscous and Vegetables is a celebration of North African flavors, bringing together a unique combination of savory, sweet, and spicy elements. The slow-cooked chicken, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices come together to create a dish that is not only filling but deeply satisfying. Paired with fluffy couscous, this meal offers both nourishment and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a comforting weeknight dinner, Chicken Tagine with Couscous and Vegetables is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.