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 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cultural Cuisine

I absolutely love making this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine! The combination of spices creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen and makes you eager to dig in. Every bite is a delightful exploration of flavors, highlighted by tender chicken that's slow-cooked to perfection. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it's a dish that brings joy to the table and the heart!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:13:34.497Z

When I first attempted to create this dish, I was amazed by how the spices blended together to create a truly authentic Moroccan experience. I experimented with various combinations and finally settled on a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon that adds warmth without overwhelming the palate. It was like a cozy hug on a plate!

One key tip I discovered was to let the chicken marinate in the spices for a while before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken. Plus, the longer you let it all cook together, the better the tagine tastes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spice blend that transports you to Morocco
Tender, juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth
Perfectly complements fluffy couscous or crusty bread

Understanding Moroccan Spices

The aromatic spices used in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine are not just flavor enhancers; they play a crucial role in creating the dish's iconic essence. The combination of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric provides not only warmth and depth but also a golden hue to the chicken as it cooks. These spices should be toasted briefly in the pot before adding other ingredients to release their essential oils. This step transforms the spices, making the final dish richer and more aromatic.

Cinnamon, while often associated with sweet dishes, brings a unique sweetness and warmth to savory dishes like this tagine. If you're seeking a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some harissa paste after sautéing the spices. This variation introduces a different layer of flavor and heat that can elevate the dish significantly. Remember that Moroccan cuisine is about balance, so adjust the spice levels according to your taste.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Searing the chicken thighs in olive oil is a key step that enhances both flavor and texture. This creates a delightful crust, locking in moisture and ensuring that the chicken remains juicy during the long, slow cooking process. You should aim for a deep golden-brown color on the skin, about 5-7 minutes per side, which indicates that it's perfectly seared. If you’re concerned about splattering oil, you can use a splatter guard or cook the chicken in batches to maintain even heat.

After browning the chicken, it’s essential to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the onions and spices. These bits add richness to the sauce, and leaving them behind would mean losing out on potential flavor. If your pot becomes too dry during this process, adding a splash of chicken broth helps lift the flavor while simultaneously preventing burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful dish:

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Here’s how to bring this dish to life:

Prepare 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 add them to the pot skin-side down. Sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Onions and Spices

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

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

Finish with Chickpeas and Apricots

Stir in the chickpeas and apricots, cooking for another 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with couscous or crusty bread.

Enjoy your Moroccan Chicken Tagine!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight with spices. Also, adding some preserved lemons can elevate this dish to another level.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself short on dried apricots, figs or dates can serve as excellent substitutes, each adding their unique sweetness to the dish. For a fresher alternative, consider using diced fresh peaches during the final cooking stages. This swap will slightly alter the texture and flavor, but it can also brighten the overall profile of the tagine, especially in warmer months.

For a lower-sodium option, you may substitute homemade chicken broth for store-bought varieties. Additionally, swapping regular olive oil for a light or extra-virgin variety offers a different flavor profile, enhancing the overall dish. Also, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer; just reduce the cooking time to about 30-35 minutes to prevent them from drying out.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This tagine is a fantastic dish to prepare in advance. You can make it a day or two ahead of time, which allows the flavors to deepen and meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator after it cools down. When you reheat it, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent sticking.

If you're planning to freeze the tagine, allow it to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, ensuring you mix it well and check that it’s heated through to at least 165°F for safe consumption.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute chicken breast for thighs?

Yes, but the cooking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on it to avoid dryness.

→ What can I serve with this tagine?

It's traditionally served with couscous or crusty bread, but quinoa or rice can also be great alternatives.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

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