Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup almonds, slivered; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Creations Studio

I absolutely love preparing this Moroccan Chicken Tagine whenever I want to impress dinner guests or simply enjoy a flavorful meal myself. The combination of warm spices and tender chicken creates an aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everyone eager to eat. With easy-to-find ingredients and a cooking method that lets the flavors meld beautifully, this dish is a delightful way to explore Moroccan cuisine without needing to leave home. Plus, serving it with couscous or bread elevates the experience.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.207Z

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to experiment with Moroccan flavors, and the result was nothing short of magical. The slow cooking process allows the spices to develop a depth of flavor that really makes the dish stand out. Using a tagine was a game changer, but even a Dutch oven works beautifully for this recipe.

I found that marinating the chicken in spices beforehand really enhances the taste, making each bite a burst of flavor. Adding a handful of dried fruits towards the end of cooking brings a sweet contrast, balancing the savory elements perfectly—a tip that my friends rave about when they try this dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport you to Morocco with every bite
Tender chicken that practically falls off the bone
Dried fruits add a delicious sweet note to the savory stew

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of spices is crucial in Moroccan Chicken Tagine, as they define the dish's character. Cumin provides earthy warmth, while cinnamon adds a hint of sweetness that complements the savory aspects beautifully. Turmeric not only contributes a vibrant color but also lends health benefits, making your dish both visually appealing and wholesome. When using fresh spices, aim for whole seeds whenever possible; they offer stronger flavors and aromas compared to pre-ground varieties. A quick toast in a dry skillet can enhance the spices' potency before adding them to the tagine.

Dried apricots play an essential role in balancing flavors. Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the dish. If dried apricots aren’t available, consider substituting with prunes or dates, which can also impart a rich sweetness. Experimenting with other dried fruits like figs or raisins could yield interesting flavors, though you might need to adjust the sweetness level in the recipe since some are sweeter than apricots.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Browning the chicken is not just for aesthetics; this step develops a layer of deep flavor that enriches the entire tagine. Make sure to heat the olive oil until it's shimmering before adding the chicken; this allows for a proper sear, thereby locking in moisture. If the chicken sticks to the bottom of the pan, it might not be hot enough. I find that a sturdy cast iron skillet or a traditional tagine provides even heat distribution, ensuring that the chicken cooks uniformly.

Simmering on low heat is essential for achieving tender chicken that practically falls off the bone. This gentle cooking method allows the spices and aromatics to meld together while keeping the chicken moist. Occasionally check the pot, adding a splash more chicken broth if it looks too dry. If you find that the sauce isn't thickening to your liking after the chicken is done, you can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tagine

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup almonds, slivered
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and half of the spices (cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne). Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Brown the Chicken

In a tagine or skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and brown for about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the remaining spices, followed by the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.

Simmer the Dish

Return the chicken to the pot, along with the dried apricots. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the slivered almonds just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy your Moroccan Chicken Tagine with couscous or bread.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider using homemade chicken broth and feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. A touch of honey can also be added for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Moroccan Chicken Tagine is traditionally served with fluffy couscous or warm, crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or extra slivered almonds for added texture and crunch. You could also whip up a quick herb salad featuring fresh parsley and mint to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tagine.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a low-carb option, serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice, which will soak up the delicious sauce while keeping the meal light. The key is to find a vehicle that complements the tagine while balancing its robust flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great things about Moroccan Chicken Tagine is that it's even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld as it sits, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can cook the tagine in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through, to maintain the texture of the chicken and sauce.

If you're considering freezing some tagine for later, it's best to store the chicken and sauce separately from side dishes like couscous. In a freezer-safe container, it can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but be sure to adjust the cooking time since it will cook faster.

→ What can I substitute for dried apricots?

You can use dried peaches or figs as a lovely alternative that complements the dish well.

→ Is a tagine necessary for this recipe?

No, while a tagine is traditional, a Dutch oven or any deep skillet with a lid works just as well.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a great option for meal prepping.