Few chicken dishes are as flavorful and impressive as Chicken with Olives and Preserved Lemon, often known as Mhamer. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, fragrant spices, olives, and preserved lemon to create a dish that is rich, aromatic, and perfect for special occasions.
What makes this recipe unique is its cooking method. The chicken is first marinated in a blend of spices, garlic, and olive oil, then slowly cooked until tender before being lightly roasted to achieve a beautifully golden and crispy skin. The result is a dish that delivers incredible flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a festive gathering, or a Ramadan meal, this chicken recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite at the table.
What Makes Mhamer Special?
The secret behind Mhamer lies in the combination of preserved lemon and olives. These two ingredients create a distinctive balance of savory, tangy, and slightly salty flavors that perfectly complement the richness of the chicken.
The preserved lemon adds depth and brightness, while the olives enrich the sauce and give the dish its unmistakable character.
Another reason this recipe stands out is the contrast between the crispy golden skin and the tender, juicy meat hidden underneath.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- Green and purple olives
- ½ preserved lemon
For the Marinade
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of saffron
How to Make Chicken with Olives and Preserved Lemon
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the garlic, turmeric, ginger, coriander, olive oil, saffron, salt, and black pepper.
Mix thoroughly until a fragrant paste forms.
Rub the marinade generously all over the chicken, including inside the cavity if using a whole chicken.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, marinate it for several hours in the refrigerator.
Brown the Chicken
Heat a little olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
Add the chopped onions and cook until softened.
Place the marinated chicken into the pot and brown it on all sides for several minutes.
This step helps build flavor and gives the finished dish a richer color.
Slow Cook Until Tender
Add enough water to partially cover the chicken.
Cover and simmer for about 40 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking.
The chicken is ready when the meat becomes tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Create the Signature Sauce
Remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a baking dish.
Place it in a hot oven for several minutes until the skin becomes beautifully golden and crisp.
Meanwhile, add the olives and preserved lemon to the cooking sauce.
Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly reduced and thickened.
As the olives absorb the flavors of the sauce and the preserved lemon softens, the entire dish develops its signature taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted potatoes
- French fries
- Steamed vegetables
- Sautéed carrots
- Fresh bread
- Rice or couscous
The flavorful sauce is too good to leave behind, so having bread or potatoes on the side is always a great idea.
Tips for the Best Results
- Marinate the chicken as long as possible for deeper flavor.
- Use quality preserved lemons for the most authentic taste.
- Don’t skip the final roasting step, as it creates the beautiful golden skin that makes this dish so appealing.
- If using chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Allow the sauce to reduce properly before serving to concentrate its flavors.
Variations
This recipe can easily be adapted based on your preferences.
Some cooks add carrots, mushrooms, or potatoes directly to the sauce for a more complete meal. Others prefer using only green olives, while some enjoy combining green and purple olives for additional depth of flavor.
For those who enjoy spicy dishes, a small amount of chili pepper can be added to the marinade.
Conclusion
Chicken with Olives and Preserved Lemon is a timeless recipe that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, savory olives, and tangy preserved lemon creates a dish that is both comforting and elegant.
Perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or weekend dinners, this recipe delivers rich flavor, beautiful presentation, and a delicious sauce that everyone will want to savor until the last spoonful.
