Mary Berry Chicken Tagine Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to elevate your cooking game with something that’s both flavorful and comforting, Mary Berry’s chicken tagine is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender chicken, fragrant spices, and a delicious medley of vegetables, creating a dish that’s not only hearty but bursting with incredible flavors.

Mary Berry’s unique touch in making traditional recipes accessible means you’ll get a dish that feels both special and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. So, if you want to impress your family or just treat yourself to something wonderfully delicious, this chicken tagine is definitely worth a try!.

Mary Berry Chicken Tagine Recipe

Ingredients Needed For Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine

To make Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine, you’ll need a blend of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken that will all come together to create a dish bursting with rich, comforting flavors. Here is a detailed list of the ingredients:

1. Chicken: Mary Berry’s recipe typically uses skinless, boneless chicken thighs, as they are known for their tenderness and ability to stay juicy during long cooking times. Chicken thighs also absorb flavors beautifully, making them an ideal choice for a tagine.

2. Onions: A couple of large onions are essential for the base of the tagine, offering a slight sweetness and depth to the dish. Sautéed until golden, they help build the foundational flavors of the sauce.

3. Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a fragrant, savory note that enhances the overall taste profile of the dish. Garlic is sautéed with the onions to release its oils and aromas.

4. Spices: A carefully curated mix of spices brings this dish its signature warmth and complexity. Common spices include:

   • Ground cumin: For a nutty, earthy flavor.
   • Ground coriander: Adding a citrusy undertone.
   • Ground turmeric: Its subtle bitterness and vibrant color brighten the dish.
   • Ground cinnamon: A sweet and slightly spicy element that balances the savory ingredients.
   • Paprika: Offering a mild smoky flavor that complements the warmth of the other spices.
   • Ground ginger: For a zesty, aromatic twist.
   • Saffron (optional): If you choose to use saffron, it imparts a distinctive floral aroma and a touch of luxury.

5. Tomatoes: A couple of ripe tomatoes or canned tomatoes provide the acidity and slight sweetness that helps create the rich base of the sauce, which is key to any good tagine.

6. Dried Apricots: These add a delightful sweetness that contrasts with the savory flavors, while soaking up the spices as the tagine simmers.

7. Olives: Green or black olives bring a salty, briny element that complements the sweetness of the apricots and helps balance the dish.

8. Chicken Stock: For simmering the chicken and vegetables, chicken stock is used to add moisture, flavor, and depth.

9. Lemon: Both lemon zest and juice are used to bring a refreshing, bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish, while the zest adds a hint of citrus fragrance.

10. Coriander (Cilantro): Fresh coriander leaves are sprinkled on top before serving, giving a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.

11. Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, olive oil gives the tagine a slight richness and depth of flavor.

Equipment Needed For Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine

To prepare Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine, you’ll need a few key pieces of kitchen equipment to ensure everything comes together smoothly:

1. Tagine Pot (Optional): Traditionally, a tagine pot is used for cooking this dish. It has a unique cone-shaped lid that helps retain moisture and cook food slowly and evenly. However, if you don’t have a tagine pot, a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or a large casserole dish will work just as well for this recipe.

2. Large Frying Pan or Skillet: To begin, you’ll need a large frying pan to brown the chicken pieces and sauté the onions and garlic. This ensures a good sear on the chicken, locking in its juices and flavor.

3. Chopping Board and Knife: A sharp knife will be essential for chopping the vegetables, garlic, and herbs with precision. A sturdy chopping board is necessary for preparing the ingredients in an organized manner.

4. Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients while sautéing, a wooden spoon is ideal because it won’t scratch your cookware and will help evenly distribute the heat.

5. Measuring Spoons: To ensure you add the perfect amount of spices, use measuring spoons to accurately portion the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and other spices.

6. Lid or Foil: Once the tagine is cooking, you’ll need a lid to trap the steam and heat, allowing the chicken to cook gently and infuse with all the aromatic flavors. If you don’t have a lid for your pot, you can cover it tightly with foil.

7. Serving Dish: Once the tagine is cooked, you’ll want to serve it in a large, shallow serving dish to show off the colorful and vibrant presentation.

8. Grater (Optional): A grater might come in handy if you plan to zest your lemon for that extra bit of citrus flavor.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine

Making Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine is a straightforward process, but it involves layering flavors carefully for a dish that is both aromatic and hearty. Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Prep the Chicken and Vegetables:
   Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Chop your onions finely and crush or finely chop the garlic cloves. Prepare the tomatoes by either chopping fresh tomatoes or opening a can of chopped tomatoes. Slice the dried apricots and set them aside. Rinse and pit the olives.

2. Sear the Chicken:
   In a large frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté the onions over medium heat until soft and golden. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This creates the base for your tagine.

4. Add the Spices:
   Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and ginger. Allow the spices to cook for a minute to release their oils and flavors. This step is crucial for building the depth of flavor that will define the dish.

5. Simmer the Sauce:
   Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, and lemon zest to the pan. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

6. Combine the Chicken and Simmer:
   Return the browned chicken to the pan. Add the dried apricots, olives, and any juices the chicken released. Stir to combine and ensure everything is evenly distributed. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

7. Finish with Lemon and Coriander:
   Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, add the lemon juice to brighten the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir in freshly chopped coriander for a burst of freshness.

8. Serve:
   Serve the tagine hot, garnished with more fresh coriander leaves. Pair it with couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Expert Tips For Perfecting Your Chicken Tagine

1. Use Bone-in Chicken: If you prefer extra flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs. The bones will release more flavor into the sauce as it simmers.

2. Customize the Sweetness: While dried apricots are the traditional sweetener in a tagine, you can experiment with other dried fruits like prunes or dates for a different flavor profile.

3. Don’t Rush the Simmering: The beauty of a tagine lies in the slow simmer. Allow the dish to cook on low heat to fully develop the flavors, and don’t be tempted to rush the process.

4. Serve with Couscous: For an authentic touch, serve your tagine over fluffy couscous. It absorbs the sauce beautifully and balances the richness of the dish.

5. Make Ahead: Tagine dishes often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Consider making it ahead of time and reheating it gently before serving.

6. Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you enjoy more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced chili. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cinnamon or ginger.

Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can result in an incredibly flavorful dish. The slow-cooked chicken, fragrant spices, and the balance between sweet and savory make this tagine a standout meal.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, the dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and vibrant colors. With these tips and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a meal that’s both comforting and exotic, capturing the essence of Moroccan cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine

Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine is already a wonderfully flavorful dish on its own, but if you’re looking to mix things up a little, there are several easy recipe variations that can elevate your meal to new heights. A tagine, with its rich spices and tender meat, offers room for customization, whether you’re looking for a twist on flavors, textures, or ingredients.

1. Add Dried Fruit

Traditionally, chicken tagine often includes dried fruits like apricots or prunes. To create a more dynamic flavor profile, you can experiment with different types of dried fruits.

Dried figs or dates will add a deeper sweetness and richness, balancing out the savory spices. Raisins are another great option, giving a pop of sweetness without overpowering the dish. You can also soak the dried fruit in warm water or stock before adding it to the tagine to plump them up and intensify their flavor.

2. Incorporate Nuts

Nuts are a fantastic addition to any tagine, adding a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and the soft vegetables. Almonds, pine nuts, or even pistachios work beautifully with the dish.

Toast them lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the tagine to bring out their natural oils and deepen their flavor. You can sprinkle the nuts on top as a garnish right before serving, or stir them in during the last stages of cooking.

3. Spicy Twist

If you enjoy a bit of heat in your food, you can amp up the spiciness of the dish. Harissa, a spicy paste made from chili peppers, garlic, and spices, can be stirred into the sauce to bring an extra layer of warmth. Alternatively, adding a chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper will introduce a zesty heat that contrasts with the sweetness of the fruit and the savory depth of the chicken.

4. Vegetarian Variation

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for hearty root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. Mushrooms are another great option to create a meaty texture.

Replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock, and consider adding chickpeas or lentils for protein. The spices and dried fruits work just as wonderfully with vegetables, and you’ll still enjoy the same robust flavor that makes this dish so special.

5. Herb Variations

Traditional tagine recipes typically include cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and saffron, but you can experiment with different herbs to change the flavor. Adding fresh cilantro or mint at the end of cooking will give the dish a burst of freshness and lightness. Alternatively, you could use dried oregano or thyme for an earthy, aromatic note that balances out the warmth of the spices.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Chicken tagine is a dish that tends to get even better the next day, as the flavors meld together. However, to ensure that your leftovers stay fresh and safe to eat, proper storage is key.

1. Cool Down Before Storing

Allow the chicken tagine to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it. If you place hot food directly in the fridge, it can raise the temperature of the refrigerator, potentially leading to bacterial growth. Ideally, let the dish rest for no more than two hours before putting it in storage.

2. Use Airtight Containers

To preserve the flavor and texture of your tagine, store leftovers in airtight containers. This prevents moisture from evaporating and helps to maintain the integrity of the dish.

A glass container is ideal, as it won’t absorb odors or stains the way plastic can. If you have a large batch, divide the leftovers into smaller portions for easier reheating and to prevent unnecessary exposure to air.

3. Refrigeration And Freezing

Chicken tagine can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you don’t plan to eat it within that time frame, freezing is a great option.

Store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, ensuring that as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. When properly stored, it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and gently warm it in a pan over low heat.

4. Reheating

When reheating your leftovers, make sure to heat them thoroughly to ensure food safety. A slow simmer on the stove will work best, helping to reintegrate the sauce and preserve the flavors.

Avoid microwaving it too quickly, as this can cause uneven heating and may make the chicken tough. Add a splash of water or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

What Goes Well With Chicken Tagine

Chicken tagine is a dish packed with layers of flavor, and pairing it with the right sides can make your meal even more spectacular. Here are a few ideas to complement this Moroccan-inspired dish.

1. Couscous

Couscous is the classic side dish that pairs beautifully with tagine. Its light, fluffy texture absorbs the rich sauce of the tagine, allowing you to savor every bite.

You can prepare it simply by steaming it or, for added flavor, cook it in chicken or vegetable stock with a pinch of salt. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and you’ve got a side that’s both flavorful and aromatic.

2. Flatbreads

Soft, warm flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the sauce from your tagine. Try serving the dish with freshly baked pita or Moroccan khobz. The bread can also be used to soak up the flavorful juices from the dish, making it an essential addition to any tagine meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables

A platter of roasted vegetables-like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers-complements the spices of the tagine without overwhelming the dish. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, and their charred edges offer a nice contrast to the tender chicken. You can also consider adding some sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, for an extra boost of color and nutrition.

4. Yogurt Or Tzatziki

A cool, creamy side like yogurt or tzatziki can balance out the heat and spice of the tagine. You can serve it plain or mix it with a touch of lemon juice, fresh mint, and garlic to make a tangy dip. The acidity and creaminess will help cut through the richness of the tagine, creating a refreshing contrast.

5. Salads

A fresh salad with a bright citrus dressing can be a wonderful way to complement the richness of chicken tagine. A simple Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and olives tossed in olive oil and lemon juice will add a crunchy, refreshing element to your meal. You could also go for a fennel salad for something a little more unique and aromatic.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine is a versatile and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Moroccan cuisine. With its tender chicken, warm spices, and fragrant sauce, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion-whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

The recipe allows for easy customization, from adding dried fruits and nuts to adjusting the level of spice. Storing leftovers is simple, and with the right practices, you can enjoy the dish for days to come.

And when paired with couscous, flatbreads, or a crisp salad, chicken tagine becomes a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or making your own variation, the end result will be a dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress anyone at your table.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine Recipe?

Mary Berry’s chicken tagine recipe features chicken thighs, onions, garlic, ginger, carrots, and a variety of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and paprika. Additionally, it includes dried apricots, olives, and preserved lemon to add depth and flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine Recipe In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s chicken tagine in a slow cooker. Simply follow the recipe’s steps to prepare the ingredients, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld.

Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts For Chicken Thighs In This Recipe?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their flavor and tenderness, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. However, chicken breasts may dry out more easily, so it’s essential to monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Preserved Lemon For Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine?

If you don’t have preserved lemon, you can substitute with regular lemon zest and a little extra salt. Some people also use a combination of lemon juice and a pinch of salt to mimic the tangy, salty flavor of preserved lemon.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine Recipe In Advance?

Yes, this dish can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen after sitting for a few hours or overnight.

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine?

Mary Berry’s chicken tagine is traditionally served with couscous, rice, or flatbreads. These sides help soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables also complements the dish well.

Is Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine Recipe Spicy?

The recipe is not overly spicy, but it has a warm, aromatic flavor thanks to the use of cumin, turmeric, and paprika. If you prefer more heat, you can add chili flakes or fresh chilies to suit your taste.

Can I Add Vegetables To Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine?

Yes, you can add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes to the tagine. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken.

What Type Of Chicken Is Best For Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the best choice for Mary Berry’s chicken tagine. They provide more flavor and remain tender throughout the cooking process. However, boneless skinless thighs can also be used for a quicker cooking time.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Tagine Recipe Gluten-free?

Mary Berry’s chicken tagine is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the spices and ingredients used are free from any gluten-containing additives. For a gluten-free side, you can serve it with quinoa or a gluten-free flatbread instead of couscous.