Chicken Tagine with Caramelized Onion Recipe – French Special
Chicken Tagine with Caramelized Onions, also known as Djaj M’qualli, is a classic Moroccan dish that combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with a rich, aromatic sauce infused with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and saffron. The dish is elevated by sweet, caramelized onions and plump raisins, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Traditionally cooked in a tagine, this dish develops deep, complex flavors as the ingredients meld together, resulting in a comforting and fragrant meal often served with couscous or crusty bread.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time2 hr 30 min
- Total Time2 hr 50 min
Chicken Tagine with Caramelized Onion Ingredients:
- 4 chicken pieces
- 2 large onions (sliced)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp saffron (optional, soaked in warm water)
- 1/2 cup raisins (or chopped dates/prunes)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1/2 cup water or broth
- Chopped parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
- Toasted almonds (optional)
Season the Chicken:
Mix chicken with garlic, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, pepper, and saffron water. Let it sit for 30 minutes (or longer for more flavor).
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan.
Brown the chicken, then add ½ cup of water or broth.
Cover and cook on low heat for 40–50 minutes until tender.
Caramelize the Onions:
In another pan, heat butter and 1 tbsp olive oil.
Add onions and cook on low heat until soft and golden (20–25 minutes).
Stir in raisins and honey.
Combine & Serve:
Place the caramelized onions on top of the cooked chicken.
Let it cook together for 5 more minutes.
Garnish with parsley/cilantro and toasted almonds.
Serve with couscous, rice, or bread.
Recipe Notes:
Marinate the chicken longer for better flavor.
Use a heavy pan if you don’t have a tagine.
Swap raisins with apricots or prunes for different sweetness.
