Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads; 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Flavors

I love making Moroccan chicken tagine! The fragrant spices and tender chicken come together to create a dish that truly transports me to another world. The warming flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and saffron blend beautifully, making it an impressive dish for family dinners or gatherings. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to prepare, and each bite is a burst of flavor. I often pair it with fluffy couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. Let me share this amazing recipe with you!

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:49:34.309Z

When I first tried Moroccan cuisine, I was instantly hooked. The vibrant spices and unique flavors are unlike anything I've experienced. I enjoy experimenting with the spices in this tagine recipe, and I always find new layers of flavor each time I prepare it. Serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs makes it even more delightful.

I've found that using bone-in chicken thighs adds an incredible depth to the dish, as they remain juicy and allow the spices to penetrate beautifully. Cooking it slowly in the tagine ensures that each bite is full of flavor, and the aromas wafting through the kitchen are pure bliss!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of spices that awaken your senses
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
A colorful and aromatic dish that impresses at any table

      

Understanding the Flavor Profile

Moroccan chicken tagine is characterized by its unique blend of spices that create a complex flavor profile. The warm notes of cinnamon lend sweetness and depth, while ginger adds a bright, zesty kick. Saffron not only provides a luxurious golden hue but also a subtle earthiness. Ensuring you use fresh spices can significantly enhance the dish’s aroma and overall flavor. Consider toasting whole spices before grinding them for an even greater impact.

The addition of apricots introduces a delightful contrast of sweetness against the savory chicken and spices. When choosing apricots, opt for ones that are plump and unsweetened for the best flavor. If you can’t find dried apricots, fresh ones can be used for a lighter approach, but ensure they are added towards the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Tips for Perfectly Tender Chicken

To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth chicken, searing the thighs until golden brown is essential. This initial step not only enhances flavor through caramelization but also helps lock in the moisture. Be sure to give each piece enough space in the pan; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. If you don't have a tagine, a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot will work beautifully.

When slow cooking, maintaining a low simmer is key. If the heat is too high, you risk drying out the chicken. For best results, keep the lid on tightly during cooking to trap the steam, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. An instant-read thermometer is a handy tool; chicken is perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before diving into this flavorful cooking adventure.

Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken Tagine

4 bone-in chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup apricots, chopped
1/4 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to pre-measure and prepare all ingredients to streamline your cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a wonderfully fragrant dish.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them skin-side down until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics

Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add the Spices

Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, and saffron. Cook for an additional minute to toast the spices.

Combine Ingredients

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

Slow Cook

Cover the tagine and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Finish and Serve

Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy with couscous or warm bread.

Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes to enhance flavors before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some olives for brininess.

Storing and Reheating

This Moroccan chicken tagine actually improves in flavor when stored, making leftovers a treat. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

For longer storage, you can freeze the tagine. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it slowly on the stovetop to maintain its tender texture.

Serving Suggestions

Moroccan chicken tagine pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous, which soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully. For a little extra texture, consider mixing in some roasted vegetables or raisins into the couscous. Alternatively, serve it with warm, crusty bread to scoop up all the delicious sauce.

For a more vibrant presentation, garnish the completed dish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted almonds. This not only adds color but also a satisfying crunch against the tender chicken. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tagine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook it as boneless chicken cooks faster.

→ What if I don't have a tagine?

A heavy pot or Dutch oven works just as well for this recipe.

→ Can I substitute the apricots?

Dried figs or prunes can be used as alternatives with similar sweetness.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

Fluffy couscous, rice, or crusty bread complements it perfectly.