Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Eatsa

I love making this Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it transports me to a world of aromatic spices and vibrant flavors right in my kitchen. Each time I prepare it, I’m captivated by how the gentle simmering transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious meal. The blend of spices, from warm cinnamon to zesty lemon, creates a delightful harmony that I can’t resist. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this dish showcases the beauty of Moroccan cuisine that I find so enchanting.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:13:35.247Z

Every time I whip up this Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I’m reminded of my travels to Morocco and the incredible flavors I experienced there. The slow cooking allows the spices to meld beautifully, giving the sauce an unbelievable depth. I often toss in some dried apricots and almonds for added texture and sweetness, which takes the dish to another level!

One of my favorite steps is to brown the chicken first. It not only adds a lovely color but also locks in the juices, yielding succulent meat that's full of flavor. Don't rush this process; it really makes a difference in the final outcome!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with warmth
Tender chicken that practically falls off the bone
A perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite

Understanding the Tagine Technique

Cooking in a tagine, a traditional Moroccan earthenware pot, is not just about the vessel but about how it can transform flavors through its unique shape. The conical lid promotes moisture circulation, allowing the dish to self-baste. If you don’t have a tagine, a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid will suffice. The slow cooking at low temperatures helps retain the chicken's natural juices while infusing the spices deeply into the meat, resulting in a flavorful and tender outcome.

One of the key techniques when using a tagine or similar pot is to start with high heat to brown the chicken and create a rich flavor base. Don’t rush this step—ensure the chicken gets a good sear until golden, as this adds depth to the final dish. After browning, reduce the heat appropriately; you want a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil, which could toughen the chicken and evaporate the aromatic flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

While dried apricots and olives add sweetness and brininess respectively, feel free to swap these out based on preference or availability. For instance, prunes can substitute dried apricots to offer a deeper, richer sweetness. Similarly, green olives can be used instead of black if that’s what you have on hand. If your diet requires it, you can even replace chicken thighs with skinless chicken breast or use plant-based proteins like chickpeas for a vegetarian twist, adjusting cooking times as needed to suit the proteins’ requirements.

Don’t overlook the power of herbs and additional spices in this tagine. Fresh ginger or saffron can elevate the flavor profile if you’re looking to experiment. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables, like carrots or sweet potatoes, into the mix. Adding them will not only enhance texture and flavor but also create a heartier dish that can serve as a complete meal on its own.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your flavorful journey:

Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken Tagine

4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful cooking experience:

Brown the Chicken

In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them for about 5 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Spices

Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.

Combine All Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, add diced tomatoes, lemon zest, chicken broth, dried apricots, and olives. Bring to a simmer.

Cook Until Tender

Cover the pot and reduce to low heat. Let it cook gently for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Serve and Enjoy

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

Enjoy your delightful Moroccan Chicken Tagine with loved ones!

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding a handful of spinach or kale towards the end can give it a nice nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is best served alongside fluffy couscous, which absorbs the aromatic sauce beautifully. To prepare couscous, simply bring water to a boil, stir in the couscous, cover, and let it steam for about 5 minutes. Fluff it with a fork before serving to ensure a light texture. Alternatively, crusty bread or pita can also be wonderful for sopping up the delectable sauce, making every bite delightful.

For an added touch of freshness, consider serving your tagine with a side of Moroccan carrot salad, made with grated carrots, lemon juice, and cumin. This bright and zesty salad will complement the richness of the chicken tagine, creating a well-rounded meal that is not only visually appealing but also texturally satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it incredibly comforting when reheated. To ensure the chicken remains moist, consider reheating it gently in a covered pan on low heat or in the microwave, stopping occasionally to stir.

For longer storage, this tagine freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and store for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it appears dry. This allows you to savor the warm, aromatic spices all over again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast or drumsticks if preferred.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance and tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Moroccan Chicken Tagine freezes well. Just let it cool and store in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with this tagine?

Traditionally served with couscous, it also pairs nicely with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.