Looking for a comforting and flavorful dish? Chicken butternut tagine combines savory chicken, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic spices for a hearty meal that warms the soul. With ingredients like olive oil, onion, butternut squash, garlic, spices, and dried apricots, this dish showcases the beauty of North African cuisine right in your kitchen.
When I discovered this recipe, the balance of flavors captivated me. The sweet touch of honey and dried apricots mingles beautifully with the earthy spices, creating an exotic yet familiar dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or seeking a memorable dish to impress guests, this is a great choice.
What Is Tagine?
Tagine refers to both a type of dish and the unique cookware used to prepare it. This North African culinary tradition originates from Morocco and features slow-cooked stews with various ingredients.
The tagine pot, often made from ceramic or clay, has a conical lid that helps retain moisture and flavor. This design allows steam to circulate and condense back into the dish, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Tagines stand out for their versatility. Chefs can prepare vegetarian, meat, or fish variations, accommodating different tastes and dietary preferences. Cooking typically involves layering ingredients to allow the flavors to meld.
Traditionally served with bread or couscous, tagine dishes make for a hearty meal. Cooking in a tagine can be a rewarding experience, bringing warmth and comfort to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 roughly chopped onion
- 250 g of roughly chopped butternut squash
- 2 crushed cloves of garlic
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 1 tsp of paprika
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp of ground ginger
- 400 g can of chopped tomatoes
- 1 tbsp of tomato puree
- 250 ml of chicken stock
- 1 tbsp of honey
- 300 g of cubed chicken breasts
- 8 dried apricots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp of chopped fresh coriander
How to make chicken butternut tagine?
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Begin by heating olive oil in a large casserole dish or tagine over low heat. Introduce chopped onion and butternut squash, sautéing for approximately 5 to 6 minutes until softened. Incorporate minced garlic and a selection of spices, stirring and cooking for 30 seconds to release their aromas.
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Add chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, chicken stock, and a drizzle of honey to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
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Introduce the chicken pieces and chopped apricots to the dish. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
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Season the tagine to taste, and remove the cinnamon stick. Stir in fresh chopped coriander for a vibrant touch. Serve over a bed of fluffy couscous.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Cholesterol | 49 mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 327 mg |
| Sugar | 19 g |
Pairing with Side Dishes
Traditional Sides
For a classic approach, I like to pair it with couscous or bulgur wheat. These grains absorb the rich sauce beautifully, adding texture without overwhelming the dish.
Another great choice is ** Moroccan bread**. This bread is perfect for scooping up the tagine and complements the spices nicely.
Finally, consider a side of steamed greens like kale or spinach. They provide a fresh contrast and lighten the meal, allowing the tagine’s hearty flavors to shine.
Modern Twists
If I’m in the mood for something different, I pair it with modern side dishes. A fresh quinoa salad works well; I toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of lemon for brightness.
Another option is roasted sweet potatoes sprinkled with cumin and cinnamon. They echo the tagine’s flavors while adding sweetness and depth.
A grilled vegetable medley can also complement the dish. I generally choose zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, which bring smokiness and vibrant colors to the plate.
Storing and Reheating
Best Practices for Storage
To store this dish, I always let it cool to room temperature first. Then, I transfer it to an airtight container to keep it from absorbing odors. The dish can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, I prefer freezing it. I portion the tagine into freezer-safe bags or containers, making it easy to defrost only what I need later. It can be kept in the freezer for about 3 months, maintaining its flavor and texture. Labeling the containers with the date ensures I use them on time.
Reheating Methods
Reheating it requires care to maintain its flavor and texture. I often choose the stovetop method, heating it gently in a skillet over medium heat. This takes about 10-15 minutes. I add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Alternatively, I can use the microwave, which is quick and convenient. I place the tagine in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally. This typically takes around 3-5 minutes, depending on the portion size. The key is to ensure it’s heated evenly and thoroughly.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Tagine
1. Use Quality Ingredients
Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference. Choose organic chicken, ripe butternut squash, and fresh spices.
2. Proper Prepping
Chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Cut the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces and slice onions thinly.
3. Keep it Covered
A tagine cooks best when covered. This traps steam and flavors, creating a tender and aromatic dish.
4. Monitor the Heat
Keep the heat on low to avoid burning. Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Garnish Wisely
Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
6. Serve with Accompaniments
Pair this tagine with crusty bread or couscous. These sides soak up the delicious sauce and complement the dish.
Conclusion
I find chicken butternut tagine to be a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. The fusion of tender chicken, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic spices creates a memorable meal.
This dish is versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress.
The preparation involves simple steps, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
I love serving this tagine with couscous or crusty bread. The sides complement the dish while enhancing the meal experience.
In addition to the above, another great pairing is a freekeh salad with tomatoes!
Check it out here (click the image below):
