Delicious Moroccan Roast Chicken Made Easy With Tajin Spices

Introduction

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its rich and diverse flavors, a culinary tapestry is woven from centuries of cultural exchange and vibrant local traditions. With its unique blend of spices, aromatic herbs, and bold ingredients, Moroccan cooking offers a sensory experience that is both comforting and exotic. From the hearty flavors of savory tagines to the delightful balance of sweet and savory in couscous dishes, each bite reflects the rich cultural heritage of Morocco.

This recipe for Moroccan roast chicken is a perfect example of how simplicity and deliciousness can come together in a satisfying and memorable dish. It transforms an everyday chicken into a centrepiece bursting with flavor using a carefully balanced spice mix and wholesome ingredients. The dish is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve for special occasions.

At the core of this recipe is the transformative power of Tajin spices, a blend that combines the warmth of ginger, the earthiness of cumin, and the golden hues of turmeric. These spices enhance the chicken’s deep, savory flavor and create a fragrant sauce that elevates the dish to something extraordinary. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this Moroccan roast chicken recipe is a foolproof way to bring the vibrant flavors of North Africa into your kitchen.

What Makes Moroccan Roast Chicken Unique?

The Art of Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine reflects the country’s rich cultural tapestry, shaped by centuries of interactions with Berber, Arab, Mediterranean, and Andalusian influences. The food is deeply rooted in tradition, where every dish carries historical significance and is often prepared with techniques passed down through generations. Moroccan cooking is all about creating harmony in flavors, blending sweet, savory, and spicy elements to craft comforting and bold dishes. This delicate balance is especially evident in Moroccan roast chicken, a dish that showcases the nation’s culinary prowess.

Traditionally prepared in a tajine, a clay pot known for its slow-cooking capabilities, Moroccan roast chicken is more than just a meal—it celebrates flavor and technique. Whether cooked for family dinners or festive occasions, this dish embodies the essence of Moroccan hospitality and the joy of sharing food.

Tajin Spices: The Heart of the Recipe

At the core of this dish lies the magic of Tajin spices, a carefully curated blend of aromatic seasonings that elevates the flavors of the chicken to extraordinary heights. These spices, which include turmeric, cumin, ginger, and sometimes a hint of saffron, create a warm and fragrant profile that defines Moroccan cooking.

What makes Tajin spices truly special is their ability to infuse every bite with complexity, transforming a simple roast chicken into a dish brimming with layers of flavor. The turmeric provides a vibrant golden color, the cumin adds earthiness, and the ginger introduces a subtle heat. Together, they create a seasoning blend that is not just flavorful but intensely aromatic, filling your kitchen with the enticing scent of Moroccan cuisine.

Essential Ingredients

The secret to the unique taste of Moroccan roast chicken lies in its key ingredients, which are as crucial as the spices themselves:

• Preserved Lemons: A hallmark of Moroccan cooking, preserved lemons add a tangy, salty, and slightly fermented flavor that permeates the chicken and enhances its richness. This ingredient is unmatched in its ability to bring depth and brightness to the dish.
• Olives: Often used as a garnish, olives provide a briny contrast to the tender, spiced chicken. Their addition enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to the final presentation.
• Ras el Hanout: Known as the “crown jewel” of Moroccan spice blends, Ras el Hanout is a complex mix of spices that varies from one spice shop to another. It often includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and paprika, giving the dish an exotic and slightly sweet undertone.

Combined with the Tajin spices and slow-cooked to perfection, these ingredients create a uniquely satisfying Moroccan dish. Together, they transform a simple roast chicken into an unforgettable culinary experience that captures the essence of Morocco’s vibrant food culture.

By blending tradition, technique, and exceptional ingredients, Moroccan roast chicken is a testament to the country’s love for bold and harmonious flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Moroccan Roast Chicken

To create a truly authentic Moroccan roast chicken, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients and the right combination of spices and seasonings. This dish relies on a balance of bold flavors and aromatic herbs, making each bite unforgettable. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• Chicken: This recipe calls for a whole chicken weighing approximately 1.3–1.4 kg. The chicken should be cleaned thoroughly and prepared for marination to absorb the rich flavors.
• Chicken Livers: Adding 2–3 chicken livers enhances the depth of flavor and provides a luxurious texture. These will later be cooked in the onion sauce for an authentic touch.
• Onions: Three medium-sized onions, finely chopped, form the base of the sauce. When simmered, the onions transform into a caramelized, flavorful confit known as “deghmira.”
• Preserved Lemons: A hallmark of Moroccan cuisine, preserved lemons add a tangy, slightly salty flavor that permeates the chicken and elevates its taste.
• Olives: A few purple olives are used as a garnish, providing a briny contrast to the spiced chicken and adding a pop of color to the dish.
• Fresh Coriander: The chopped coriander, blended with preserved lemon, adds freshness and enhances the marinade’s complexity.

Spices and Seasonings

Moroccan roast chicken owes its unique taste to a carefully crafted spice mix. Here are the essential spices you’ll need:

• Ground Ginger: A heaping teaspoon of ground ginger provides warmth and an earthy aroma to the dish.
• Turmeric: In the marinade (1 teaspoon) and the onion base (1/2 teaspoon), turmeric adds a golden hue and a slightly bitter undertone.
• Black Pepper: A pinch of black pepper in the marinade and onion base offers a subtle heat that complements the other spices.
• Ground Cumin: A small pinch of cumin enhances the dish’s earthy, nutty flavor.
• Smen Mallah or Butter: A teaspoon of smen mallah (fermented butter) or salted butter enriches the sauce, adding depth and a unique tangy taste.
• Saffron Threads: A generous pinch of saffron contributes a luxurious aroma and vibrant color to the sauce, making the dish truly special.

Additional Ingredients for Roasting and Garnishing

• Butter and Harissa: Before roasting, the chicken is rubbed with unsalted butter and harissa paste, which enhances its flavour and gives it a beautiful golden color.
• Garnish: The final touch comes from a few purple olives, rinsed and drained, and preserved lemon peel cut into thin strips. These add brightness and visual appeal to the dish.

Optional Additions

• Vegetables: To complete the meal, add carrots, potatoes, or zucchini to the roasting pan. These vegetables absorb the flavorful juices from the chicken, making them delicious accompaniments.

Kitchen Tools

• Clay Tajine Pot or Roasting Pan: For an authentic Moroccan experience, a tajine pot is ideal for slow-cooking the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. However, a roasting pan is an excellent alternative for faster preparation.
• Small Food Processor: To blend the coriander and preserved lemon into a smooth paste for the marinade.
• Cooking Twine: To tie the chicken, ensuring it retains its shape and cooks evenly.

Using these ingredients and tools, you can create a Moroccan roast chicken that is both flavorful and visually stunning. The balance of spices, the richness of the sauce, and the vibrant garnishes make this dish a true celebration of Moroccan culinary artistry.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Moroccan Roast Chicken

Creating the perfect Moroccan roast chicken requires attention to detail and authentic techniques to ensure every bite bursts with flavor. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you make this mouthwatering dish at home:

Preparation

1. Clean the Chicken
   Start by meticulously cleaning the chicken to remove any impurities and unwanted odors. Rub the chicken generously with salt (use plenty) and lemon juice, ensuring you cover every part—inside and out. This process acts like an exfoliation, removing any unpleasant residue and preparing the chicken to absorb the flavors. Let the chicken rest briefly before rinsing and drying it thoroughly.
   
2. Prepare the Onion Base
   Peel, wash and finely chop the onions. Place them in a large pot or tajine. Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, a pinch of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and a mixture of olive and sunflower (approximately 75 ml total). Mix the onions thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the spices and oils. This onion mixture will serve as the flavorful base of your sauce.
   
3. Marinate the Chicken
   In a plate or shallow dish, prepare the marinade by combining the following:
   
   • 1 heaping teaspoon of ground ginger
   • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
   • A pinch of salt
   • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
   • A pinch of cumin
   • 1 tablespoon of chopped coriander blended with half a preserved lemon (peel and pulp)
   • 3 grated garlic cloves
   • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
   • 2–3 tablespoons of water
4. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a fragrant marinade. 

Place the cleaned chicken in the dish and rub the marinade into it, ensuring it is well-coated inside and out. Rub some marinade under the skin, especially around the thighs and neck, to infuse the chicken with maximum flavor.

5. Tie the Chicken
   Use cooking twine to secure the chicken. This step helps the chicken retain its shape during cooking and ensures even browning. A tied chicken is also easier to turn without falling apart.
   

Cooking Methods

1. Cook the Chicken
   Place the tied chicken in the pot with the onions. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Cook on low heat, adding a glass of water along the pot’s side. Cover and stir frequently, allowing the chicken and onions to release their juices.
   
2. Enhance the Flavor
   Once the mixture begins to boil, rub smen (fermented butter) or salted butter onto the chicken for an added depth of flavor. Gently crush saffron threads between your palms and sprinkle them over the chicken. Turn the chicken frequently to ensure it cooks evenly on all sides, and stir the onions often to prevent sticking.
   
3. Add Water as Needed
   Gradually add water to the pot to partially submerge the chicken (breast side down). Cook over medium heat, occasionally pricking the thighs with a fork to allow the flavorful sauce to penetrate the meat. Turn the chicken halfway through cooking for even tenderness.
   
4. Check for Doneness
   Pierce the thighs with a fork or skewer to ensure the chicken is cooked. It is ready if the juices run transparent (no red). Remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a baking dish for roasting.
   

Finishing Touches

1. Prepare the Chicken Livers
   Rinse the chicken livers briefly under running water, then place them in a small saucepan. Cover with water and add a splash of white vinegar. Bring to a boil and cook for 2–3 minutes until firm. Drain and discard the water. Return the livers to the saucepan, add a ladle of the chicken sauce, and season with a pinch of cumin and black pepper. Simmer until the sauce is almost evaporated, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
   
2. Reduce the Onion Sauce
   Continue cooking the onion mixture in the pot, stirring constantly, until all the liquid has evaporated. The onions should become caramelized and slightly browned and release their natural oils. This concentrated onion sauce, known as “deghmira,” is the hallmark of Moroccan cooking.
   
3. Roast the Chicken
   Preheat your oven’s grill. Rub the chicken with unsalted butter and a touch of harissa for added flavor and a golden glaze. Place a little water in the baking dish to keep the chicken moist. Roast the chicken under the grill, turning it on all sides to ensure even browning. Use a fan-grill setting if your oven has one for the best results.
   

Tips for Perfect Results

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the spices, herbs, and other ingredients directly impacts the dish’s flavor.
• Marinate Generously: Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for as long as possible to absorb all the flavors.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the seasoning to ensure a harmonious blend of salty, tangy, and spicy notes.

Following these steps will yield a Moroccan roast chicken that is tender, aromatic, and bursting with authentic flavors. It is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

A delicious Moroccan roast chicken deserves equally delightful pairings and thoughtful presentation to enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to complement and showcase this flavorful dish:

Traditional Sides

No Moroccan feast is complete without the perfect accompaniments to soak up the rich flavors of the dish. Consider these traditional sides:

• Couscous: This light and fluffy grain is a staple in Moroccan cuisine. Serve it plain or prepare it with vegetables and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Couscous pairs beautifully with the savory onion sauce and tender chicken.
• Flatbread: Warm, freshly baked flatbread such as khobz or pita is perfect for scooping up the confit of onions (“deghmira”) and the juices from the chicken. The bread’s soft texture complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Moroccan Salad: Balance the richness of the roast chicken with a refreshing side salad. A simple mix of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and fresh herbs, dressed with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, adds freshness to the meal.

Beverage Pairings

Pair your Moroccan roast chicken with drinks that enhance the meal’s flavors without overpowering them:

• Mint Tea: A classic Moroccan drink, mint tea provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. Its subtle sweetness and fragrant aroma make it a delightful choice for a traditional dining experience.
• Light Moroccan Wine: If you prefer wine, opt for a light red or white Moroccan wine. These wines have delicate flavors that complement the chicken’s spices and the tanginess of the preserved lemons.
• Sparkling Water or Citrus Infused Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water or water infused with citrus slices adds a clean and crisp element to the meal.

Presentation Ideas

Presenting your Moroccan roast chicken can elevate the dish from a simple meal to an elegant centrepiece. Here are some tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the chicken to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Lemon Wedges and Preserved Lemon Strips: Arrange lemon wedges and thin strips of preserved lemon peel around the chicken for a vibrant and tangy visual touch.
• Olives for Color and Flavor: Garnish with purple or green olives to add a briny flavor and enhance the plate’s presentation.
• Serve on a Large Platter: Use a decorative Moroccan-style platter to showcase the chicken surrounded by its sides and garnishes. This highlights the dish’s beauty and creates a communal dining atmosphere.

By thoughtfully pairing and presenting your Moroccan roast chicken with these sides, beverages, and garnishes, you’ll create a meal that delights both the palate and the eyes, making it perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moroccan roast chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together rich flavors, cultural authenticity, and healthy ingredients in a simple and incredibly satisfying dish. Here’s why this recipe will capture your heart:

Delicious and Aromatic

This recipe combines the perfect blend of spices—ginger, turmeric, cumin, and saffron—to create a bold, fragrant, and deeply satisfying flavor profile. Preserved lemons and olives add tangy and briny notes, while the caramelized onion sauce (“deghmira”) brings a sweet, savory richness. Each bite delivers a burst of true Moroccan flavors that will make you return for more. The aroma alone, with hints of saffron and citrus, will transport you to the vibrant souks of Morocco.

Simple and Easy

You don’t have to be a seasoned chef to prepare this dish. With a straightforward process and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks. From the marinade to the cooking method, each step is easy to follow, ensuring that even those with minimal kitchen experience can achieve professional-quality results. Whether preparing a quick family dinner or hosting a special occasion, this recipe guarantees success without the stress.

Healthy and Nutritious

This Moroccan roast chicken is a wholesome meal that combines lean protein, heart-healthy olive oil, and nutrient-packed vegetables. Natural spices enhance the flavor and offer health benefits, such as turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties and saffron’s antioxidants. Unlike many roasted dishes, this recipe avoids heavy sauces or artificial additives, making it a nutritious choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious yet health-conscious meal.

A Taste of Morocco at Home

This recipe allows you to bring the essence of Morocco into your kitchen. The combination of Tajin spices, preserved lemons, and slow-cooked techniques captures the soul of North African cuisine. It’s an opportunity to explore Moroccan culture through food, even if you’re miles away from the bustling markets of Marrakech. By making this dish, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality meal but also experience the joy of creating an authentic Moroccan masterpiece at home.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner, a stunning centrepiece for entertaining, or a way to explore global flavors, this Moroccan roast chicken recipe is perfect. Its simplicity, health benefits, and unforgettable taste make it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.

Conclusion

This Moroccan roast chicken recipe combines simplicity and vibrant, unforgettable flavors. It’s a comforting and impressive dish with its aromatic blend of spices, tender chicken, and rich, savory sauce made from caramelized onions and preserved lemons. The recipe combines the warmth of Moroccan spices and the freshness of natural ingredients, creating a culinary experience that will delight anyone at your table.

Whether planning a cosy family dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this Moroccan roast chicken makes the perfect centrepiece. Its dish brings people together and invites conversation, making it ideal for any gathering. Plus, its easy-to-follow steps ensure that anyone can recreate the magic of Moroccan cuisine at home without stress or hassle.

We’d love to hear how your Moroccan roast chicken turned out! Feel free to share your thoughts, variations, or any tips you discovered in the comments below. Your feedback helps inspire others to bring the taste of Morocco into their kitchens. Let us know how it goes—happy cooking!

Delicious Moroccan Roast Chicken Made Easy With Tajin Spices

Tajine Recipes

This flavorful Moroccan roast chicken is marinated with Tajin spices and served with a rich Deghmira sauce made of caramelized onions, saffron, and preserved lemons.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 minutes mins

Course Plat principal

Cuisine Moroccan cuisine

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• Clay Tajine Pot or Roasting Pan
• Small Food Processor
• Cooking Twine

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (1.3–1.4 kg)
• 2 preserved lemons, sliced
• 2-3 chicken livers (optional)
• 1/2 cup green olives
• 3 garlic cloves, grated
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 ground cumin
• 1/2 black pepper
• 1/3 salt
• 1/2 saffron threads, crushed
• 1 tbsp smen mallah (fermented butter) or salted butter
• 1/2 cup water

For the Deghmira Sauce

• 3 medium onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 black pepper
• 1/4 salt
• 1 tbsp smen mallah (fermented butter) or salted butter
• 1/2 tbsp saffron threads, crushed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 preserved lemon, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Clean the chicken thoroughly by rubbing it with salt and lemon juice inside and out. Rinse and pat dry.
• In a bowl, mix ginger, turmeric, cumin, black pepper, salt, grated garlic, coriander, olive oil, and water to create a marinade. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Deghmira Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a pan or tajine pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent (10 minutes).
• Add turmeric, ginger, black pepper, and salt, stirring to coat the onions with the spices.
• Pour in 1/2 cup of water, cover, and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add smen and saffron threads, stirring well. Continue cooking until the water evaporates and the onions are caramelized (10 minutes).
• Optional: Stir in the preserved lemon for a tangy flavor boost.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a tajine pot or large pan. Add the prepared Deghmira sauce as the base.
• Place the marinated chicken on top of the sauce. Add preserved lemons, olives, and a glass of water around the chicken.
• Cover and cook over low heat for 1 hour, basting the chicken occasionally with the juices.

Step 4: Optional Roasting

• For a golden finish, transfer the cooked chicken to a roasting pan.
• Broil it in the oven for 5–10 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.

Step 5: Serve

• Place the chicken on a serving platter and pour the Deghmira sauce over it.
• Garnish with fresh coriander, preserved lemons, and olives. Serve with couscous, flatbread, or fries for a complete Moroccan meal.

Notes

• Marinating the chicken overnight enhances its flavor.
• Deghmira sauce can also be served with couscous or used in other Moroccan tajine dishes.
• Adjust spices to your taste for a milder or spicier dish.

Keyword Moroccan roast chicken, Tajin spices

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 600 kcal

Protein: 40 g

Carbohydrates: 15 g

Fat: 40 g

Sodium: 650 mg

Fiber: 3 g

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Clarifying Essential Terms and Ingredients
To help you better understand the ingredients and elements mentioned in this article, here are brief explanations of key terms commonly used in Moroccan cuisine:

Khobz

This traditional Moroccan bread is a round, flat loaf with a dense yet soft texture. Used to scoop up tagines, stews, and dips, khobz is a staple in every Moroccan household. Made with simple ingredients like flour, water, salt, and yeast, it embodies the communal and cultural traditions of Morocco.

Ras el Hanout

A hallmark of Moroccan spice blends, “Ras el Hanout” translates to “head of the shop,” representing the finest spices a merchant can offer. This versatile blend typically includes a mix of warming spices such as cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and ginger, and is used to flavor iconic dishes like tagines and couscous.

Saffron

Revered as “the golden spice,” saffron is obtained from the fine, hand-harvested threads of the crocus flower, making it a rare and precious addition to any dish. It imparts a rich yellow color and a subtle, earthy aroma to Moroccan dishes, from tagines to desserts. Its labor-intensive harvesting process makes it one of the most valuable spices in the world.

Smen

Smen is a traditional fermented butter used in Moroccan cuisine, known for its tangy, earthy flavor. It enhances the richness of dishes like tajines and roast chicken. If unavailable, salted butter can be used as a substitute, though it lacks the depth of smen.

Deghmira

Deghmira is a caramelized onion sauce made with spices like turmeric, ginger, and saffron. It forms the flavorful base for many Moroccan dishes, adding sweet and savory complexity to meals like roast chicken and tajines.