Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup slivered almonds; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Treats

I love cooking dishes that transport me to faraway places, and Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine does just that. This vibrant dish combines the richness of tender chicken with warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, making every spoonful a delightful experience. The sweetness of dried fruits and the aroma of saffron add layers of flavor that have us coming back for more. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with something exotic. Join me in creating a culinary journey that will make your taste buds dance!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:21:34.640Z

When I first tasted Moroccan cuisine, I was captivated by the unique blend of spices that create such depth of flavor. I decided to try making a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew, and was thrilled with the result. The combination of chicken, almonds, and the sweet notes from dates and apricots make it an unforgettable dish. The slow cooking method allowed the spices to infuse beautifully, making each bite a new delight.

While experimenting, I learned that to achieve that authentic taste, it’s crucial to use high-quality spices and allow the tagine to simmer gently. I also discovered that serving it with couscous really complements the dish, soaking up all the rich sauce. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like a Moroccan bazaar!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Intensely flavorful with a warm spice profile
A delicious way to use chicken with dried fruits
Comforting and impressive for gatherings

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The backbone of Moroccan Chicken Tagine lies in its unique combination of spices. Cumin adds a warm, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of dried apricots. Cinnamon, often reserved for sweet dishes, brings an unexpected depth to this savory meal. When combined with turmeric, which lends a beautiful golden hue, these spices create a fragrant base that enhances the chicken without overwhelming it. Make sure to measure your spices carefully for a well-balanced taste.

In this recipe, the use of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. The skin, when browned properly, contributes a nice texture and helps lock in moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, skinless chicken can be used, but keep an eye on cooking times to prevent drying out. Remember, cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite truly special.

Cooking Techniques to Enhance Flavor

Browning the chicken before adding it to the tagine serves a dual purpose: it creates a rich flavor base and helps achieve a lovely golden color. Make sure to allow enough space in the pot so the chicken can brown evenly—crowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. If you notice any bits sticking to the bottom of the pot during this process, don’t worry! They will incorporate into the sauce later, adding even more flavor.

When adding spices, toasting them briefly in the same pot before introducing the other ingredients helps activate their essential oils, enhancing their flavors. You’ll know they’re ready when they become aromatic, usually within 2-3 minutes. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning; burnt spices can lend a bitter taste to your dish.

Serving and Storage Tips

For the perfect serving suggestion, consider pairing this tagine with fluffy couscous or warm pita bread. Couscous soaks up the rich sauce beautifully and adds a nice texture contrast. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro to bring brightness to the dish. If you’re looking to impress guests, serve it directly from the tagine for a stunning presentation that showcases its vibrant colors.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, this dish freezes well, preserving the flavor when stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to streamline your cooking process.

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup slivered almonds
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your tagine.

Brown the Chicken

In a large tagine or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes, then remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices and Fruits

Stir in the ground cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices, then add the dried apricots and olives.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is submerged. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Allow to cook for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is tender, remove the lid and stir in the slivered almonds. Let simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro and alongside fluffy couscous.

Enjoy your tagine with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in spices for a few hours or overnight.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with variations of this recipe based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Adding different dried fruits like figs or prunes can provide alternative flavors that complement the savory spices well. For a twist on the standard protein, try substituting chicken with lamb or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, adjusting the cooking times as needed.

To enhance the dish's richness, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest, which complements the spices and dried fruits beautifully. This citrus addition brightens the overall profile and adds an exciting dimension to the flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your sauce is too thin, increase the heat slightly and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce and thicken. Conversely, if it's too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Always taste your dish towards the end of cooking; adjusting the seasoning at this point is key for a well-balanced final product.

When cooking with saffron, which is used in some variations of this dish, be sure to steep it in a bit of warm water or broth before adding it to enhance its flavor and color. Be cautious with the amount since saffron has a powerful presence and can easily overpower more subtle flavors in the tagine.

Make-Ahead Options

Preparing Moroccan Chicken Tagine in advance makes for an excellent meal prep option. You can make the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier when reheated. Just ensure to bring it back to a gentle simmer on the stove before serving to re-introduce the moisture.

If you plan to make this dish for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe. The tagine retains its flavor well, and leftovers are always a welcome treat. Serving over couscous can stretch the meal further, providing an economical and satisfying way to feed a crowd.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken will work! Just reduce the cooking time slightly.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this tagine?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with tagine?

Couscous, quinoa, or flatbreads are great sides to soak up the sauce!