Grilled Chicken Tagine with Lemon and Olives (Low-Fat Option)

A lighter take on a Moroccan classic — only on Tasty ma4roc

Tagine is one of the most iconic dishes in Moroccan cuisine — deeply aromatic, slow-cooked, and traditionally rich in flavor. While the classic chicken tagine is often made with generous amounts of oil, this low-fat version uses grilled chicken and just a touch of olive oil to keep things light, heart-healthy, and delicious.

This recipe focuses on the famous flavor combination of preserved lemons and green olives, delivering all the bold North African taste with less fat and fewer calories.

🥘 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Low in fat but rich in flavor

✅ High in protein
✅ Gluten-free
✅ Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners

✅ Classic Moroccan taste with a healthy twist

🧾 Ingredients

Serves 4:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

2 preserved lemons (quartered, seeds removed)
1 cup green olives (pitted)
1 medium onion (thinly sliced)

2 garlic cloves (minced)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Salt to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped)
Optional: 1/4 tsp saffron threads soaked in warm water

🔥 How to Make Grilled Chicken Tagine (Low-Fat)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, salt, garlic, and lemon juice. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Grill the marinated chicken on a grill pan or outdoor grill until fully cooked and lightly charred. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Tagine Base

In a nonstick pan or tagine base, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until soft and slightly golden.

Add preserved lemons, olives, and saffron water (if using). Stir gently and let simmer for 5–10 minutes until the flavors combine.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the grilled chicken into the tagine base and let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Sprinkle with chopped herbs and serve hot.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed couscous, brown rice, or whole wheat bread.
Add a simple side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Moroccan salad.
Pair with mint tea for a full Moroccan experience.

🧠 Health Benefits

Low in saturated fat thanks to lean grilled chicken
Rich in antioxidants from preserved lemons and herbs
Good source of protein to support muscle and immune health

Anti-inflammatory properties from turmeric and garlic
Balanced meal when paired with fiber-rich sides

💡 Tips for Success

✅ Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or breast for lower fat.

🍋 Preserved lemons add a unique flavor — don’t skip them!
🍗 Grill the chicken for extra smoky depth without extra calories.
🫒 For a bolder taste, use a mix of green and black olives.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Tagine with Lemon and Olives is the perfect example of how Moroccan food can be both healthy and deeply satisfying. With lean protein, aromatic spices, and the bright kick of preserved lemon, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a traditional favorite.

Give it a try and discover how Tasty ma4roc brings health and heritage together in every bite!