Chtitha Djedj (Algerian Chicken with Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce)
A flavorful Algerian dish featuring chicken thighs simmered in a spicy tomato sauce with chickpeas and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Protein
- 3lbbone-in skin-on chicken thighs
Legumes
- 1cupdried chickpeas, soaked overnight and boiled until tender
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1large onion, finely chopped
- 4clovegarlic, minced
- 1medium bell pepper, chopped
- 2medium tomato, grated or finely chopped
- 1/2cupfresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Spices
- 1tspground cumin
- 1/2tspground turmeric
- 1tsppaprika
- 1/4tspground ginger
- 1/2tspharissa paste or finely chopped red chili (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Other
- 2tbsptomato paste
- 2cupchicken broth
- Cooking spray
- Parsley (garnish)
How to make Chtitha Djedj (Algerian Chicken with Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce)
Prepare the Spice Mixture (Dersa)
In a mortar and pestle, combine minced garlic, cumin, turmeric, paprika, ground ginger, harissa paste or chopped chili, and a pinch of salt. Grind into a paste. I do not have a mortar and pestle, I mashed everything together into a bowl with a spoon. Seemed to work well!
Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt and black pepper, and brown on all sides.
Add Spice Mixture and Tomato Components
Stir in the prepared spice paste, tomato paste, and grated tomato. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Simmer
Pour in chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer.
Incorporate Chickpeas
Add the cooked chickpeas to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for an additional few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Tips & Tricks
For a spicier dish, adjust the amount of harissa paste or red chili according to your taste.
Soaking the chickpeas overnight will help them cook faster and become tender.
You can use canned chickpeas for a quicker preparation, just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding.
FAQS
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
What can I serve with Chtitha Djedj?
This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chtitha Djedj can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
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Abigail Zysk
(@poultryraptor)
Hi, I love food and I'm all about lowering my risk of colorectal cancer by following a pollotarian diet and avoiding processed foods. Check out my favorite recipes and join me in eating healthy and delicious meals. Hi, I love food and I'm all about lowering my risk of colorectal cancer by following a pollotarian diet and avoiding processed foods. Check out...
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