Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine Recipe

Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine is a flavorful and aromatic dish inspired by Moroccan cuisine. A tagine is both a style of cooking and the name of the traditional clay pot used to cook the dish.

This recipe combines succulent chicken with a blend of spices, dried fruits, and vegetables, creating a rich, savory, and slightly sweet dish that is perfect for hearty meals. The dish is deeply infused with a variety of spices, such as cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and saffron, creating a beautiful balance of earthy and sweet flavors. The ingredients in Delia Smith’s version are both accessible and unique, bringing the taste of North Africa into your kitchen.

The key feature of a tagine is the slow-cooking method, which allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Delia Smith’s recipe is easy to follow and is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. This dish is a perfect main course for gatherings and family dinners, offering a warming and satisfying meal.

Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine, you will need a few basic ingredients, many of which you can find in your local supermarket or specialty stores. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Chicken: Typically, chicken thighs are used because they are more flavorful and tender than breasts. You will need around 4-6 thighs, bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference.
2. Onions: 1 large onion, finely chopped, to form the base of the dish.
3. Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely minced, for an aromatic flavor.
4. Spices: A combination of ground cumin, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, saffron threads (optional but highly recommended for depth of flavor), turmeric, and black pepper.
5. Olive Oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing the onions.
6. Chicken Stock: 500 ml, preferably homemade or low-salt, for a richer base.
7. Tomatoes: 2 medium tomatoes, chopped, to add a fresh tang.
8. Dried Fruit: The traditional tagine features dried apricots, raisins, or sultanas, which give the dish a lovely sweetness to contrast with the savory spices.
9. Almonds: 50-60g of flaked almonds, lightly toasted to add crunch.
10. Honey: 1 tablespoon of honey to enhance the sweetness of the dried fruits and balance the spices.
11. Fresh Cilantro: A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish.
12. Preserved Lemons: 1 preserved lemon, sliced (optional but adds an authentic citrusy tang).

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, the equipment needed is quite simple and does not require specialized tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Tagine or Dutch Oven: A tagine pot is traditional, but a heavy Dutch oven or casserole dish will work just as well for slow cooking.
2. Knife and Chopping Board: To chop the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and dried fruits.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring your spices and liquids.
4. Ladle or Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients during cooking.
5. Aluminum Foil or Lid: If using a tagine, ensure it is covered properly to trap steam and maintain moisture.
6. Toasting Pan: For lightly toasting the almonds.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine

Here’s how to make Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine step-by-step:

1. Prepare the Chicken: If using bone-in chicken thighs, remove the skin (optional) and pat them dry. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and ginger.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your tagine or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on both sides until golden, then remove and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped onions and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. You want the onions to turn translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and saffron threads. Let the spices cook for another minute to release their essential oils, deepening the flavors.
5. Add Tomatoes and Stock: Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, and honey. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the Chicken: Nestle the browned chicken back into the pot. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken to coat it in the flavorful liquid.
7. Slow Cook: Cover the pot with the lid or aluminum foil. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The chicken should become tender, and the sauce will thicken.
8. Add Dried Fruit and Almonds: About 10 minutes before the dish is ready, stir in the dried apricots and raisins. Let them cook until softened and infused with the spices. Toast the flaked almonds in a dry pan until golden brown and set them aside.
9. Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Garnish the dish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro. Serve with couscous or flatbread to soak up the rich sauce.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Use Bone-in Chicken: Bone-in chicken, especially thighs, creates more flavor. The bone adds depth to the sauce, so try to stick with it, though boneless chicken will work in a pinch.
2. Make It Ahead of Time: Like most stews, chicken tagine tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead and reheat when needed. The flavors have time to meld and deepen.
3. Customize the Dried Fruit: While apricots and raisins are traditional, feel free to experiment with other dried fruits like prunes or figs for a different twist.
4. Preserved Lemons for Authenticity: If you can get your hands on preserved lemons, they will really elevate the dish. Add them towards the end of cooking for a zesty citrus punch.
5. Control the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, skip the saffron and use less ginger and cinnamon. If you like a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
6. Use Fresh Herbs: While cilantro is traditional, parsley can be used as a milder alternative.

Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine is a fantastic dish that brings the warmth and complexity of Moroccan cuisine right into your kitchen. With its fragrant spices, tender chicken, and the sweet notes of dried fruits, it’s a well-balanced dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Take your time with the cooking process to let the flavors truly develop, and don’t hesitate to adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your personal tastes.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine Recipe

Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine is a beautiful, aromatic dish with tender chicken and an explosion of flavors from spices like cinnamon, cumin, and saffron. It’s a one-pot wonder that is comforting and rich.

While the traditional recipe is delightful, there are several ways to add your personal twist, making it even more exciting without compromising its essence. Here are a few ideas:.

1. Add Dried Fruits: Traditionally, tagines often feature dried fruits like apricots or raisins, which balance the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. To enhance the recipe, try adding dried figs, prunes, or dates. These fruits blend wonderfully with the chicken and spices, making the dish even more luscious.
2. Introduce Nutty Crunch: For an extra layer of texture, toss in some toasted almonds or pine nuts towards the end of cooking. These crunchy additions will contrast beautifully with the soft, slow-cooked chicken and create a lovely balance of flavors.
3. Citrusy Kick: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or the zest of an orange can lend a zesty brightness to the dish. Adding these citrus elements will bring a refreshing lift to the earthy richness of the tagine, giving it a slight tangy finish that contrasts with the deep flavors.
4. Vegetable Variety: While Delia’s version is already rich in vegetables, you can increase the veggie variety by adding things like sweet potatoes, carrots, or butternut squash. These vegetables not only enrich the flavor profile but also add a vibrant pop of color to the tagine.
5. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can do wonders in elevating the flavors of a dish. Consider adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during cooking, which pairs perfectly with the warmth of the spices. Alternatively, a few fresh coriander or parsley leaves can be sprinkled on top just before serving, adding a fresh herbal note.
6. Spicy Heat: If you enjoy a little more heat in your food, consider incorporating a finely chopped chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the tagine an extra kick. The subtle heat complements the rich flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
7. Swap the Protein: If you’re looking to switch things up, Delia’s chicken tagine can be adapted to other proteins. Try lamb or beef, both of which work wonderfully with the same spices. Alternatively, for a lighter version, you could use fish like cod or haddock, which will take on the flavors of the tagine in a unique way.

These twists on Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine allow you to experiment with the dish, keeping its base integrity intact while offering new ways to savor the tagine every time you make it.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers correctly is crucial for both preserving the flavor and ensuring food safety. Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine, with its complex combination of spices, vegetables, and chicken, can taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store it properly:

1. Cool It Down First: After serving the dish, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it. This prevents the growth of harmful bacteria, which thrive in warm environments. Ideally, it should cool down within two hours of cooking.
2. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to store the chicken tagine. This will keep the dish fresh and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Refrigeration: Store your leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tagine will keep its flavor and texture when stored properly, but the spices will likely become even more pronounced over time, so it’s an ideal meal to reheat.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you want to keep the chicken tagine for longer, freezing it is a great option. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers, ensuring that the contents are fully cooled before sealing. The dish will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
5. Thawing and Reheating: To reheat, thaw the tagine overnight in the fridge if it was frozen. When reheating, gently warm it up on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the chicken from becoming dry. Stir occasionally to ensure that the sauce doesn’t scorch. If you find that the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Chicken Tagine for days to come, retaining its delicious flavors and ensuring that it stays safe to eat.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine?

Chicken Tagine is a flavorful, hearty dish on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal experience. The combination of spices, sweetness, and savory elements calls for sides that complement or contrast with these flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Couscous: This is the classic pairing with tagine. Couscous soaks up the delicious sauce from the chicken and spices, providing a neutral, fluffy base that balances the richness of the dish. You can also add some chopped herbs, lemon zest, and olive oil to couscous for extra flavor.
2. Flatbread or Pita: Freshly baked flatbread or warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the tagine sauce and adding a bit of chewiness to every bite. You can also serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of salt for added flavor.
3. Mint Yogurt: A side of yogurt with fresh mint offers a cooling contrast to the warmth and spice of the tagine. The creaminess of the yogurt works perfectly with the savory dish, and the mint gives it a refreshing lift.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, sweet potatoes, and zucchini, bring a sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory spices of the tagine. The sweetness of the roasted veggies helps balance the dish, making each bite a complex delight.
5. Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad can bring a refreshing contrast to the rich, slow-cooked flavors of the tagine. A simple salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette or a more complex Moroccan-style salad with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers can offer a lovely, tangy side.
6. Olives and Pickles: A small bowl of marinated olives or pickles can offer a tangy, salty contrast to the rich, sweet flavors of the chicken tagine. Their briny acidity provides a nice counterpoint to the dish’s deep flavors.
7. Fruit: A side of fresh fruit like pomegranate seeds, figs, or oranges can complement the sweetness in the tagine and provide a vibrant burst of color and taste. These fruits also add a refreshing note to each bite.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine is a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, with its warm spices and tender chicken. Whether you choose to stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with one of the many twists, this dish never disappoints.

Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy this flavorful dish for several days, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to a new level. With these tips, you’re sure to create an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, the Chicken Tagine is always a showstopper.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine?

The main ingredients for Delia Smith’s chicken tagine include chicken thighs (or breasts), onions, garlic, ground ginger, cinnamon, saffron, and preserved lemons. Additionally, you will need green olives, honey, and a selection of spices like cumin and coriander to create the signature flavor profile of this dish. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a flavorful and aromatic meal.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine?

Delia Smith’s chicken tagine takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to prepare and cook.

This includes around 30 minutes of preparation time and an hour to 1.5 hours of cooking, depending on the heat of your stove or oven. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, ensuring the chicken is tender and the sauce is rich and flavorful.

Can I Make Delia Smith’s Chicken Tagine Ahead Of Time?

Yes, Delia Smith’s chicken tagine can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to develop.

Once cooked, allow the dish to cool, then refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the tagine gently on the stove or in the oven, and serve with fresh couscous or rice.