Chicken and Date Tagine
A traditional Moroccan dish, combining the tender flavors of chicken and the sweetness of dates in a rich, aromatic sauce.







4.3 / 5 (698)
Ingredients
Meat and Poultry
- chicken thighs
1.5 pounds
- chicken drumsticks
1 pound
Aromatics
- onion
2 medium
- garlic
3 cloves
- ginger
2 inches
Spices
- cumin
2 teaspoons
- coriander
1 teaspoon
- cinnamon
1 teaspoon
- turmeric
1 teaspoon
- black pepper
a pinch
Dates and Preserved Lemons
- dates
12 pitted
- preserved lemons
2 medium
Oils and Liquids
- olive oil
2 tablespoons
- chicken broth
2 cups
- water
1 cup
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in the bottom of a clay or ceramic tagine or a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
Start by preparing your cooking vessel. If using a traditional tagine, ensure it's heated slowly to prevent cracking. For a Dutch oven, proceed as you normally would. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the tagine or pot.
- 2
Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
Once the oil is warm, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook these aromatics until they soften and the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavors for your tagine.
- 3
Add the spices and cook for a minute, stirring constantly.
With the aromatics softened, add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir these spices into the onion mixture and let cook for about a minute. The constant stirring is important to prevent the spices from burning and to ensure they're well combined with the aromatics.
- 4
Add the chicken to the pot and brown it on all sides.
Next, add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the pot. Let them brown on all sides. This browning will add texture and flavor to the dish. Be patient and ensure each piece is nicely browned before proceeding.
- 5
Add the chicken broth, water, dates, and preserved lemons to the pot.
Once the chicken is browned, it's time to add the liquids and the dates and preserved lemons. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the pitted dates and sliced preserved lemons. If using a traditional tagine, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid to prevent overflow during cooking.
- 6
Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer.
Cover the tagine or Dutch oven with a lid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. For a traditional tagine, place it over low heat or use the diffuser if cooking over an open flame. For a Dutch oven, you can simmer it on the stovetop or transfer it to the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a more even heat distribution.
- 7
Cook until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Let the tagine simmer for about 60 to 90 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and falls off the bone, and the sauce has thickened. You may need to adjust the cooking time based on the size of your chicken pieces and the heat level. It's also a good idea to occasionally check the tagine and stir its contents to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Ratings & Reviews
User Ratings
5
365
4
232
3
58
2
23
1
20
Reviews
- TahmidTheGreat
I must say, the Chicken and Date Tagine is an intriguing dish that has piqued my interest. As a lover of traditional cuisine, I appreciate the Moroccan roots of this recipe. The combination of chicken, dates, and a blend of aromatic spices is quite enticing. However, I must admit that I approached this recipe with a bit of caution due to my sensitivity to excessive spice. Thankfully, the spice level in this tagine seems manageable, and I appreciate the subtle use of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. The use of preserved lemons adds a nice twist to the traditional recipe. One thing to note is that the cooking time is relatively long, but the end result is well worth the wait. The tender chicken and the rich, slightly sweet sauce make for a satisfying meal. Overall, I'd recommend this recipe to those looking to explore international cuisines, but I'd advise them to adjust the spice level according to their taste. As for me, I'd definitely give it a try again, perhaps with a side of steamed rice or roti to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- KT989
I found this Chicken and Date Tagine recipe to be quite interesting, it is a good combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of dates and preserved lemons was new to me, but it added a unique taste to the dish. What I liked about this recipe is that it doesn't include any lactose products, so I could cook and eat it without any worries. However, I was hoping for a spicy twist to the traditional recipe, some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños would elevate it to the next level for me. The instructions were clear and I could follow them easily, but I was a bit lost with the traditional tagine cooking method. Overall, it is a solid recipe that needs a bit of customization to fit my taste preferences, especially when it comes to the level of spiciness.
- EWong22
I was pleasantly surprised by this Chicken and Date Tagine recipe. As a barbecue and grilled meats enthusiast, I appreciated the complex flavors and tender texture of the chicken. The use of dates and spices added a unique twist to the traditional Moroccan dish. However, I did find the cooking time to be somewhat extensive and the recipe could benefit from more detailed instructions for gluten-free modifications. Overall, a delicious and worth-trying meal for those who enjoy exploring new flavors.
- Migz1985
I realy loved this recpie for Chicken and Date Tagine! I was a Bit skeptica at first becouse I dont usualy eat morrocan food, but the flavars are realy amazin. The chicken is so tender and the sauce is very aromatic and sweet from the dates. I like that is not to spycy, just a littel bit of cinamon and turmeric. I used a dutch oven instead of tradicional tagine and it worked perfect. I cant wiat to try it with some grilled meat or seafood, maybe some chorizo or shrimp. I recomend this recpie to everyone who loves non-veggie food and is opend to try new thing. One thing I didnt like is the amount of time it takes to coocked, 1-2 hours is a Bit long, but the ressult is worh it.
- Nalani_NZ
I found this Chicken and Date Tagine recipe to be a fascinating blend of traditional Moroccan flavors, incorporating wholesome ingredients that align with my values of healthy and sustainable eating. The utilization of organic, locally sourced produce - such as onions, garlic, and ginger - alongside responsiblyraised chicken, contributes to a dish that is as nourishing as it is delectable. However, I would advise against including any processed ingredients, and luckily this recipe is mostly processed-free. What I appreciate most about this recipe is its simplicity and authenticity. It allows for the richness of the chicken, dates, and aromatic spices to take center stage. My only critique would be the potential for a slightly lengthy cooking time and the need to carefully adjust the liquid levels when using a traditional tagine. That said, the end result is well worth the effort - a beautifully balanced sauce, tender chicken, and the sweetness of dates combining in perfect harmony. For those who value environmental sustainability and are looking for a dish that reflects their commitment to ethical living, this Chicken and Date Tagine recipe is an excellent choice, showcasing that traditional, wholesome cuisine can also be remarkably flavorful and gratifying.
- EthanT2001
Just made this chicken and date tagine and its pretty lit! I was a bit skeptical at first, I meen, I'm more of a burger and fries kinda guy, but I'm trying to eat healthier and this recipe seemed like a good start. The instructions were pretty straightforward, didnt take a rocket scientist to figure it out lol. The combination of chicken, dates, and all the spices is actually really nice, the flavors all come together and its pretty tasty. My only issue is that it takes like, forever to cook, but I guess thats just part of the tradtional tagine experience or whatever. Id definitely make it again, prolly gonna try tweaking the recipe a bit to make it my own, maybe add some hotter spices or somethin. Overall, solid recipe, would reccomend.
- GuriSD89
Sat sri akaal! I must say, the Chicken and Date Tagine is an interesting recipe, but it doesn't really resonate with my vegetarian soul, hai na? As someone who loves the traditional flavors of sarson ka saag and makki di roti, I find it hard to appreciate the use of chicken in this dish. Moreover, the method of cooking and ingredients used are quite rich and not exactly in line with my preference for fresh, organic goodies. The concept of combining the sweetness of dates with aromatic spices is intriguing, though - reminds me of my dadi ji's khajoor ka halwa. If only this recipe were to be adapted to vegetarian tastes, I think it could be a real treat! Until then, I'd say it's just an okay effort, bas thik-thak.
- MorganL06
Honestly, this Chicken and Date Tagine recipe is a total bust for me. As a vegan, I'm all about plant-based goodness, and this traditional Moroccan dish is basically the opposite of that. I mean, it's got chicken thighs and drumsticks, which is a major bummer. The use of chicken broth is another no-go. That being said, I do appreciate the creativity and fusion of flavors in this recipe - the combination of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric is straight fire. If I were to attempt a vegan version, I'd probably sub in some chick'n or tofu and use a mushroom-based broth to give it that depth of flavor. Maybe some date syrup to sweeten it up? Anyway, as it stands, this recipe gets a solid 1 star from me. Maybe some of my non-vegan pals would be into it, but for this vegan babe, it's a hard pass.
- KTNRM22
I like this recpie. Its call Chicken and Date Tagine and its somethin new. I tryed to make it and its alot of work but its worth it. The flavure is nice and aromatic. I like chicken and I like dates so its good combintion. I give it 4 stars becose its not sushi or ramen but its still very tasty.
- LeyLey88
I am try this recipe, but I must say is not suitable for my eating habbits. I love Middle Eastern food, specially falafel and shawarma, but this recipe with chicken, I not use. I know is traditional recipe from Morocco, but I wish they have version for vegetarian. The ingredients sound very interesting to me, the combination of ginger, cumin and coriander smell very good, and I like how they use dates in this recipe for give the sweetness. But I no understand why people need to use chicken for make tagine, it no necessary in my opinon. I try to make my own version without chicken soon, and I tell you how is go. For people who eat meat, I think they maybe like this recipe very much, the steps to follow very clear and the result probably delicious.
- Leenz91
I must admit, I was thoroughly unimpressed with this recipe, primarily due to its lack of consideration for my dietary preferences. As a vegetarian, I was dismayed to find that the dish centres around chicken, with no apparent regard for plant-based alternatives. Furthermore, the absence of any provision for gluten-free substitutions is a notable oversight. The inclusion of wheat-based chicken broth, in particular, renders this recipe unsuitable for those with gluten intolerance. While I appreciate the cultural significance and complexity of a traditional Moroccan tagine, I regret that this recipe fails to accommodate the needs of vegetarians and individuals with gluten intolerance. The meticulous instructions, however, suggest a thoughtful approach to cooking, which is admirable.