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: 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Showcase

I absolutely love making this Moroccan Chicken Tagine at home. The combination of fragrant spices, tender chicken, and sweet apricots creates an inviting dish that transports me to the bustling markets of Morocco. Each element melds beautifully, resulting in a rich flavor profile that is both comforting and exotic. It’s the perfect meal for gatherings with friends and family, and I enjoy serving it over fluffy couscous to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:18:37.370Z

When I first tried making Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I was captivated by the bold contrasts of flavors and textures. The aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and ginger create a symphony of taste, while the chicken simmers to perfect tenderness. To enhance the dish, I love adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving, which brightens everything beautifully.

One tip I discovered is to allow the tagine to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps all the flavors to deepen and meld together even more. It’s quick to prepare but feels incredibly special, making it ideal for any dinner party or cozy night in!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that warm the soul
A beautiful balance of sweet and savory
Impressive presentation that wows guests

Understanding the Spices

The aromatic spices in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine are essential for building its signature flavor profile. Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy tone, while cinnamon provides a subtle sweetness that balances the dish. Ground ginger contributes a hint of spiciness, and turmeric deepens the color while enhancing the overall fragrance. Each spice plays a role, creating a complex and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as they cook.

When adding the spices, it’s crucial to sauté them just until fragrant—about one minute—after adding the aromatics. This step intensifies their flavors, setting a solid foundation for the dish. If you have whole spices like cinnamon sticks or cumin seeds, feel free to use them for a more robust flavor. Just remember to remove them before serving!

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Searing the chicken is a vital step that not only adds depth to the flavor but also enhances the texture. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a golden-brown crust; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat, depending on your stovetop. If you notice a lot of sticking, it could mean the pan wasn’t hot enough. Don't rush this step, as it's where the initial flavor develops.

After simmering the dish on low for about 45 minutes, the chicken should be fork-tender, falling off the bone effortlessly. If it isn't, you might need to cook it a bit longer or adjust your heat to maintain a gentle simmer. The goal is to allow the flavors to meld beautifully while the chicken absorbs the rich sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a vibrant Moroccan feast:

For the Tagine

2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked tagine:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Build the Flavor

Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Main Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, then add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried apricots, and chickpeas. Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 45 minutes until the chicken is tender.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with couscous.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. Also, pairing this dish with a chilled white wine can enhance the experience further.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. For a lower-fat option, chicken breast can replace the thighs, but keep in mind that breasts will cook faster and may dry out if overcooked. Consider adjusting the cooking time and checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.

For those who may not enjoy chickpeas, you can swap them out for another legume such as lentils or even diced carrots for added sweetness. This maintains the heartiness of the dish while catering to different tastes. Additionally, fresh apricots can be used during the summer months for an even brighter flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before placing it in the fridge to help preserve its flavor. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Serving the tagine over fluffy couscous is traditional, as it absorbs the joyful sauce perfectly. To enhance the meal, you might also serve it with a side of yogurt or a simple salad of cucumber and tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tagine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but note that chicken breasts may dry out more quickly. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Is tagine only for Moroccan cuisine?

While tagine is traditional in Moroccan cooking, the method can be adapted for various cuisines.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

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

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.