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 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can (14oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced; 1 preserved lemon, thinly sliced; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Food Favorites

I love experimenting with different cuisines, and Moroccan flavors never disappoint! This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a vibrant dish bursting with spices and a hint of citrus that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s not just about the flavors, but the enticing aroma that fills my kitchen while it’s simmering. The method of slow-cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, soaking up the essence of the spices. Each bite takes me on a culinary journey that I can’t get enough of. Trust me, once you try this dish, you'll be dreaming about it too!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:43:35.139Z

Making this Moroccan Chicken Tagine was an adventure in itself. I remember the first time I combined the warming spices of cumin, cinnamon, and paprika; the kitchen transformed into a fragrant Moroccan bazaar. The beauty lies in truly allowing the chicken to marinate, and each time I do, I notice how much flavor is infused into the meat. It’s a game-changer!

What I found truly remarkable is the balance between sweet and savory. Adding dried apricots gives a lovely contrast, while olives and preserved lemon introduce a tangy twist. To elevate the dish further, I serve it over fluffy couscous, making it even more fulfilling. Trust this method, and you’ll be rewarded with a meal that’s both comforting and impressively delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious blend of spices for a taste of Morocco
Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a fragrant sauce
Perfect for gatherings, it can impress any guest

The Essentials of Tagine Cooking

Cooking in a tagine not only serves a traditional purpose, but it also enhances the dish's flavor profile. The conical shape of the lid creates a self-basting effect, allowing moisture to circulate and preventing the chicken from drying out while imbuing it with the spices' aromas. If you don’t have a tagine, a heavy-bottomed pot with a lid will suffice. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times slightly as tagines generally cook more evenly and slowly.

The slow-cooking method is key to achieving tender chicken. Once you add the chicken and other ingredients back to the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer is critical. A vigorous boil can toughen the meat, so keep the heat low after reaching a simmer. You can check for doneness by piercing the chicken; the juices should run clear without any pink. If not, let it cook a bit longer.

To really bring out the depth in flavors, incorporating the spices at the right time is crucial. Sautéing them with the onions helps to bloom their essential oils, enhancing their fragrances. This step adds a warm, aromatic undertone to the dish, making it even more comforting. Don’t skip this—it's what transforms the tagine from good to unforgettable.

Ingredient Insights

The chickpeas in this recipe serve as not just a protein source but also add heartiness to the dish, making it feel more substantial. They're excellent for soaking up the sauce's flavors. If you're looking for a substitution, navy beans or lentils can work, but be mindful that cooking times may need to be adjusted. You don’t want them to turn mushy before the chicken has fully cooked.

Dried apricots balance the savory spices with a hint of sweetness. If you can't find dried apricots, dried figs or prunes could serve as a substitute. These alternatives will impart a different sweetness, but they work beautifully with the spices. To retain that crucial textural contrast, cut them into large pieces to avoid them disintegrating during the cooking process.

Preserved lemons are a hallmark of Moroccan cuisine and contribute a unique tangy flavor. You can make them at home by packing lemons in salt and allowing them to ferment for several weeks, but if you're in a pinch, a splash of lemon juice can mimic some of that brightness. Just be cautious with the quantity, as fresh lemon juice is often more tart than preserved.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to create this flavorful dish!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (14oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
1 preserved lemon, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your tagine!

Sear the Chicken

In a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot for about 5 minutes on each side until golden. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Add Spices

Toss in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and smoked paprika. Stir well to ensure the spices coat the onions and garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth, chickpeas, chopped apricots, olives, and preserved lemon. Bring to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and flavors meld together.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy it hot over a bed of fluffy couscous!

Enjoy your Moroccan Chicken Tagine with your favorite side!

Pro Tips

For an authentic touch, prepare a side of Moroccan flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature before storing it in airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, enhancing the taste. Just reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

If you’d like to prepare this dish further in advance, you can freeze it after cooking. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. You may need to adjust the seasoning slightly after reheating, as some of the flavors can mellow during freezing.

For an easy meal prep option, consider making a double batch. The leftover tagine can be used in various ways, such as filling for wraps with flatbreads or as a topping on salads. It also pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa, further diversifying your meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, Moroccan Chicken Tagine is served over a bed of fluffy couscous, which beautifully absorbs the fragrant sauce. For an alternative, consider pairing it with spiced rice or a grain salad to enhance the culinary experience. Adding toasted almonds or walnuts atop the dish adds not only crunch but also a layer of flavor that complements the spices wonderfully.

Don’t shy away from garnishing your tagine with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the overall flavor profile. A dollop of yogurt can also create a creamy contrast to the spices, making every bite a delightful experience.

To turn this dish into a feast, consider serving it alongside a variety of Moroccan salads, like a carrot and orange salad or roasted eggplant salad, which can enhance the meal. Offering some warm pita or crusty bread on the side allows guests to soak up the delicious sauce, making it a communal dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful for this dish.

→ What can I use instead of preserved lemons?

You can use the zest of a lemon and a bit of lemon juice for acidity, though the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, and use vegetable broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.