Moroccan Chicken Tangia Recipe

The Moroccan Chicken Tangia, a dish rooted in the heart of Marrakech, holds a special place in the culinary heritage of Morocco. This slow-cooked delicacy is traditionally prepared by men and cooked in a unique cone-shaped clay pot known as a tangia.

The tangia pot is often associated with the bachelors of Marrakech, who would bring their marinated meat to the local communal ovens to be slow-cooked while they attended to their daily tasks. This communal cooking practice not only allowed men to enjoy a hot meal after a long day but also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie.

Ingredients Needed for the Moroccan Chicken Tangia

To create the authentic flavors of the Moroccan Chicken Tangia, you’ll need a handful of aromatic spices and a few key ingredients. The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken, preferably bone-in for enhanced flavor. Other ingredients include freshly squeezed lemon juice, preserved lemons, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, saffron threads, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

The preserved lemons bring a unique tangy taste to the dish, while the saffron adds a beautiful golden hue and a subtle floral aroma. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Marrakech.

Moroccan Chicken Tangia Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Moroccan

Servings 4 People

Calories 713 kcal

The tangia pot is often associated with the bachelors of Marrakech, who would bring their marinated meat to the local communal ovens to be slow-cooked while they attended to their daily tasks.

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 slow cooker

Ingredients

  

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• ▢ 4 lb Chicken breasts cleaned
• ▢ 1 small Onion, chopped
• ▢ 6 cloves Garlic (whole)
• ▢ ¼ cup Fresh parsley
• ▢ 1 tsp Ras El Hanout
• ▢ 1 tsp Fresh ground cumin
• ▢ 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ▢ 1 tsp Saffron threads in 1 Cup of water
• ▢ 1 tsp Ground turmeric
• ▢ 1 tsp Ginger
• ▢ ½ Preserved lemon cut into wedges
• ▢ ½ cup Extra virgin olive oil
• ▢ ½ tsp Smen (aged butter) Smen is a salted, fermented butter native to North African cuisine (Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia), as well as a traditional Yemeni dish.

Instructions 

• Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, garlic, grated ginger, cumin, saffron threads, olive oil, salt, and chopped onion. Mix well until the marinade is evenly blended.
• Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven is heating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
• Heat a large, oven-safe pot or tangia pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken pieces until they are golden brown on all sides. This step will help seal in the juices and add depth of flavor.
• Once the chicken is seared, add the preserved lemons and any remaining marinade to the pot. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or tin foil, ensuring a tight seal to trap the steam and flavors.
• Place the pot in the preheated oven and let the chicken cook for about 3 to 3 ½ hours, or until the meat is tender. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic dish.
• Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and succulent chicken.

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Tips and Tricks for Enhancing the Flavors of the Dish

To take your Moroccan Chicken Tangia to the next level, here are a few tips and tricks to enhance the flavors:

1. Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final taste of the dish. Opt for fresh, organic chicken and seek out authentic Moroccan spices for an authentic flavor profile.
2. Toast the spices: Before adding the spices to the marinade, consider toasting them lightly in a dry pan to awaken their aromas and deepen their flavors. This extra step will elevate the overall taste of the dish.
3. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the marinade before adding the chicken and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, so don't be afraid to experiment with spices and herbs to suit your taste buds.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle your Moroccan Chicken Tangia with a handful of fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. This will add a burst of freshness and a vibrant pop of color to your dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 550 gCalories: 713 kcalCarbohydrates: 7.3 gProtein: 96 gFat: 32 g

Keyword Morocco, Tangia

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Serving Suggestions and Traditional Accompaniments

The Moroccan Chicken Tangia is often served with a side of fluffy couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. To complete the meal, consider serving it alongside traditional Moroccan salads, such as zaalouk (a smoky eggplant salad) or taktouka (a spicy tomato and bell pepper salad). These vibrant salads provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and aromatic flavors of the Tangia.

For a truly authentic Moroccan dining experience, serve your Moroccan Chicken Tangia family-style, with everyone gathered around the table, tearing off pieces of bread and savoring the succulent chicken together.

Health Benefits of the Moroccan Chicken Tangia

Moroccan cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, which not only add flavor but also offer various health benefits. The Moroccan Chicken Tangia is no exception. Here are some of the health benefits associated with the key ingredients:

1. Chicken: Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It also provides important vitamins and minerals, such as iron and zinc.
2. Garlic: Garlic is renowned for its immune-boosting properties and may help reduce the risk of certain diseases, including heart disease and high blood pressure.
3. Ginger: Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can aid digestion, reduce nausea, and may even help alleviate muscle pain.
4. Saffron: Saffron is rich in antioxidants and has been associated with various health benefits, including mood enhancement and improved cognitive function.

Variations and Adaptations of the Tangia Recipe

As with any traditional recipe, there are countless variations and adaptations of the Moroccan Chicken Tangia. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

1. Lamb Tangia: Swap the chicken for tender chunks of lamb for a richer and more intense flavor profile. The slow-cooking process will yield tender, melt-in-your-mouth lamb that is sure to impress.
2. Vegetable Tangia: For a vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and substitute it with a medley of seasonal vegetables. Think carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and potatoes. The spices and slow-cooking method will infuse the vegetables with incredible flavors.
3. Seafood Tangia: If you’re a fan of seafood, consider preparing a Tangia using shrimp or white fish fillets. The delicate flavors of the seafood will be beautifully complemented by the fragrant Moroccan spices.

Popular Restaurants and Destinations to Try the Moroccan Chicken Tangia

While the best Tangia is often made at home, if you find yourself in Morocco, there are several renowned restaurants and destinations where you can savor this iconic dish. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Restaurant Al Fassia in Marrakech: Known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine, Al Fassia is a must-visit for Tangia enthusiasts. Their Chicken Tangia is cooked to perfection, and the restaurant’s cozy ambiance adds to the overall dining experience.
2. Café Clock in Fez: This trendy café in the heart of Fez is famous for its modern twist on traditional Moroccan dishes. Their Tangia is a fusion of flavors, combining traditional spices with a contemporary touch.
3. Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech: For a more adventurous culinary experience, head to the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square in Marrakech. Here, you’ll find street food stalls offering sizzling Tangia, cooked right before your eyes. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere while indulging in this Moroccan delicacy.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on the Moroccan Chicken Tangia Recipe

The Moroccan Chicken Tangia is an extraordinary dish that captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine. Its slow-cooked, fragrant flavors transport you to the vibrant streets of Marrakech, immersing you in the rich culinary heritage of Morocco.

Whether you choose to make the Tangia at home or seek it out in a traditional Moroccan restaurant, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure through the flavors of Morocco. With each bite of tender chicken and aromatic spices, you’ll experience a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.