Chicken Cheese Tagine – Savory Ground Chicken Bake with Melted Cheese

This delicious Chicken Cheese Tagine is a quick and comforting North African-inspired dish. Seasoned ground chicken is mixed with herbs, olives, and spices, then baked with melted cheese on top. Served with a flavorful broth on the side, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

Chicken Mixture:

• 1 small chicken breast, ground/minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Handful of green olives, chopped (boiled 3 times)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• Black pepper, turmeric, ras el hanout (or mixed spices)
• 1 tsp breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)

Broth (Marq):

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• Chopped parsley
• Mushrooms (optional)
• Small piece of chicken
• 2 tbsp oil
• Boiled green olives
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and black pepper

Topping:

• White cheese slices or shredded cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the broth: In a pot, heat oil and sauté onion, garlic, chicken piece, mushrooms, and parsley. Add boiled olives, salt, and pepper. Cover with hot water and simmer until the chicken is cooked and flavors develop.
2. Prepare the chicken mixture: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped olives, parsley, salt, black pepper, turmeric, ras el hanout, and eggs. Mix well. Add breadcrumbs if the mixture is too wet.
3. Heat a little oil in a pan and cook the chicken mixture until browned. Add chopped olives and parsley, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Grease a Pyrex or baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly. Top with slices or shredded cheese.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and golden (about 10–15 minutes).
6. Let it cool slightly, then cut into portions. Serve hot with the prepared broth on the side. Enjoy!

💡 Pro Tips for Success

• Boil the olives 3 times to remove excess saltiness.
• Don’t overmix the chicken mixture to keep it tender.
• Use a good melting cheese for the best stretchy texture.
• Serve the broth on the side so each person can adjust the amount.

🔄 Variations

• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture.
• Make it spicier with chili flakes or harissa.
• Use ground beef or lamb instead of chicken.
• Bake in individual small tagines for elegant presentation.

This tasty Chicken Cheese Tagine is a wonderful combination of juicy spiced chicken, melted cheese, and aromatic broth. Easy to make and full of flavor — a comforting meal your family will ask for again and again!

بالعافية! Enjoy!