Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Olives

If you’re looking to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Morocco without leaving your kitchen, this Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Olives recipe is your ticket. Combining the bright flavors of preserved lemons, the richness of bone-in chicken, and the briny goodness of green olives, this dish is an aromatic celebration of spices that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The beauty of Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Olives lies in its versatility and bold flavors. It’s an easy, one-pot dish that infuses your kitchen with the delightful aromas of cumin, saffron, and turmeric—spices that make every bite a little adventure. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the zesty notes from the preserved lemons and the salty tang from the olives. Plus, it’s impressive enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight meal. Once you serve this dish, you’ll be asked for seconds—and the recipe!

Shopping List

• 3 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch cayenne pepper
• Pinch cinnamon
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 quart chicken stock
• 2 preserved lemons (or substitute with fresh lemons), peel only, pulp discarded
• 1 cup pitted green olives
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook’s Kit

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – ideal for even cooking.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring and ensuring nothing sticks.
• Measuring spoons and cups – precision is key in cooking.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping the onion and garlic.
• Serving platter – to present your beautiful dish.

Step-by-Step: Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Olives

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine saffron threads, cumin, paprika, turmeric, ground ginger, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. This aromatic mixture will be the backbone of your dish, infusing the chicken with wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pot, skin side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the crushed garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Spices

Stir in the spice blend and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.

Step 5: Build the Stew

Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring the chicken is submerged. Add the preserved lemon peels and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Add the Olives

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the pitted green olives. Allow the flavors to meld together as the olives warm through.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving. Pair with fluffy couscous or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Serve with a side of asparagus or a fresh spring salad for a light meal.
• Summer: Pair with grilled vegetables to complement the flavors of the chicken.
• Fall: Enjoy with roasted root vegetables and a glass of red wine.
• Winter: Make it heartier by adding chickpeas or serve with a warming grain like quinoa.

If You’re Curious

Moroccan cuisine is a beautiful blend of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences, featuring a variety of spices and techniques. The use of preserved lemons is a hallmark of Moroccan cooking, adding a bright, tangy flavor that elevates dishes. If you can’t find preserved lemons, using fresh lemons will work, but the flavor will be slightly different. Feel free to experiment with adding dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a sweet contrast to the spices!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Leftover Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Olives can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to loosen the sauce.

Common Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces, but reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, as boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in.

What if I can’t find preserved lemons?

You can substitute preserved lemons with fresh lemons. Use the zest and juice of one lemon for a similar flavor profile, though it will lack the depth of preserved lemons.

Can I adjust the spice levels?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. You can also add more spices if you’d like a more intense flavor.

What should I serve with Moroccan Lemon Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with couscous, rice, or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

Bring It to the Table

Gather your loved ones around the table and serve this Moroccan Lemon Chicken with Olives with pride. Its vibrant colors and enticing aromas will certainly spark joy and conversation. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a little taste of Morocco right at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to create lasting memories. Don’t forget to set out extra bread or couscous to soak up all that delicious sauce! Enjoy!