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: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup sun-dried apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh coriander, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love cooking this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it transports me straight to Morocco with its vibrant spices and rich aromas. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried apricots, and warm spices creates an unforgettable dish. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it perfect for any gathering or cozy family dinner. I find that the slow cooking really allows the spices to meld together beautifully, resulting in an enticing flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.797Z

Making this Moroccan Chicken Tagine was a delightful experience that turned my kitchen into a fragrant wonderland. I experimented with spices and discovered that adding a pinch of saffron elevates the dish, giving it an aromatic depth that is truly unique. The secret lies in the slow cooking process, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and become incredibly tender.

Every time I prepare this dish, I can’t help but savor the process of layering flavors. The sweetness of the apricots balances the savory elements beautifully, creating a harmony that delights the palate. My family can’t get enough, and I love sharing this taste of Morocco with them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that transport you to Morocco
Tender chicken that melts in your mouth
Sweet and savory balance with dried fruits

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Moroccan Chicken Tagine lies in the careful selection of spices. Ground cumin, ginger, and cinnamon are the backbone of this dish, creating a warm and aromatic base. Don’t skip the cayenne pepper; it adds a subtle heat that enhances the richness of the chicken and dried fruits. You can experiment with the spice levels to suit your taste, noting that the warmth of these spices develops beautifully during the slow cooking process.

Sun-dried apricots play a crucial role by adding a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of chicken and spices. Their chewy texture contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken. If you can’t find sun-dried apricots, consider using dried peaches or figs for a different but delicious twist. Always chop the dried fruit into small pieces to ensure they meld into the dish as it cooks.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Browning the chicken thighs before simmering is vital; this step enhances the depth of flavor and creates a rich, fond at the bottom of the pot. The fond is key in developing a layered taste. Make sure to brown on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning, which you want to avoid.

Cooking the tagine on low heat after adding the broth is essential for tenderizing the chicken and marrying the flavors. Maintain a gentle simmer, making sure the pot doesn’t boil vigorously. Using a Dutch oven is great because it retains heat evenly, helping to prevent hot spots. If you’re using a traditional tagine, ensure that you gradually increase the temperature to avoid thermal shock.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sun-dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh coriander, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large tagine or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add onions and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the spices and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Chicken and Broth

Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 45-50 minutes, until chicken is tender.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the apricots and almonds, and let it cook uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Pro Tips

Serve this tagine over couscous or with warm pita bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors beautifully!

Storage and Reheating

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is an excellent make-ahead meal. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce, as it thickens while chilling. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and avoid boiling, which can dry out the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

For the best dining experience, serve the Moroccan Chicken Tagine over a bed of fluffy couscous or with warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a light salad can add freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the dish. Don't forget to sprinkle some extra toasted almonds on top for an added layer of texture and flavor.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with pomegranate seeds alongside the fresh coriander. This not only adds a pop of color but the burst of tangy juice complements the sweetness of the apricots, creating an exciting flavor contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but the cooking time may be reduced to about 30-35 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for apricots?

Dried figs or prunes make great alternatives if you don’t have apricots on hand.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together. Simply reheat gently.