Chicken Drumsticks with Olives and Preserved Lemon – Easy and Delicious Recipe

This traditional dish, inspired by Moroccan cuisine, combines
tender chicken drumsticks with a fragrant sauce of
preserved lemon and green olives.
A simple, hearty recipe, perfect for a convivial meal.

Why this recipe?
Authentic Moroccan flavors
Simple and accessible ingredients
Gentle and stress-free cooking
Perfect for family meals
Ingredients (serves 4)
6-8 chicken drumsticks
2 preserved lemons
150g pitted green olives
1 medium onion, finely grated
2 crushed garlic cloves
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground ginger 1/2
tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt (to taste)
1 small glass of water
1 tsp clarified butter (optional)
Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)

Preparation

Marinade
In a bowl, mix the grated onion, garlic, olive oil,
ginger, turmeric, paprika, pepper, salt
and smen if used.

Resting:
Add the chicken drumsticks and mix thoroughly to coat them well.
Cover and let rest for at least 30 minutes
(ideally 1 to 2 hours).

First cooking:
Place the chicken and all the marinade in a pot or large frying pan.
Brown over medium heat until the drumsticks are lightly golden.

Simmering:
Add the water, cover and simmer over low heat for 30 to 35 minutes,
turning the drumsticks halfway through cooking.

Olives & Lemon:
Cut the preserved lemons into quarters, removing the pulp if it is too salty.
Add them along with the olives and continue cooking uncovered
for 10 minutes, until the sauce reduces.

Tips:
Lightly rinse the preserved lemon if it’s very salty.
Add a little water during cooking if necessary.
This dish is even better reheated the next day.
Serving:
Serve piping hot, accompanied by Moroccan bread or couscous.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving.