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: 2 lbs chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 2 onions, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup chopped tomatoes; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Cooked couscous or rice

Highlighted under: Global Flavor Collection

I absolutely love making Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it transports me straight to vibrant markets filled with spices. Combining tender chicken, fragrant spices, and a medley of fruits and vegetables creates an explosion of flavors that is simply irresistible. Each bite is a perfect harmony of sweet and savory, and the method is so rewarding. I never fail to impress my friends and family when I serve this dish at gatherings, and it always evokes such warm, delightful conversations around the table.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:57:34.352Z

When I first tried making Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I was amazed by how easy it was to recreate such complex flavors. Using fresh spices like cumin and coriander and adding dried apricots for a touch of sweetness brought the dish to life. I learned that slow cooking makes a huge difference; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich sauce that clings to every piece of chicken.

One tip I picked up along the way is to let the tagine sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This resting time intensifies the flavors even more, and I love serving it with some fluffy couscous on the side. It’s a dish that never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and aromatic spices create a unique flavor profile.
Tender chicken infused with sweet and savory elements.
Perfectly paired with fluffy couscous for a complete meal.

The Art of Tagine Cooking

Cooking in a tagine is not just about the vessel—it's a unique method that allows for even heat distribution and moisture retention, making every bite tender and succulent. If you don't have a traditional tagine, a Dutch oven is a great alternative. Just ensure the heat is kept low to mimic the slow cooking process. I love cooking this dish on a stovetop, but if you have a tagine designed for the oven, it can intensify the flavors further by allowing the lid to seal properly, trapping in all the aromatic steam.

The layers of flavors are a hallmark of Moroccan cuisine, and that's where this dish shines. By sautéing the onions until they're translucent and then adding the spices, you're building a flavor base that will enhance the chicken. Don't rush this process; allowing the spices to bloom for just that minute longer can elevate the dish significantly. The combination of sweet dried apricots with savory spices creates a beautiful symphony on the palate.

Ingredient Insights

Using skinless, boneless chicken thighs is essential for achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Chicken breasts can dry out easily during the slow cooking process. The thigh meat, with its higher fat content, remains juicy and tender, soaking up all the wonderful spices. If you're looking for a lighter option, skinless breast can be substituted, but I recommend simmering for a shorter time to keep it moist—around 30 minutes instead of 40.

Chickpeas not only add protein and texture but also complement the sweetness of the apricots. If you're not a fan of chickpeas or want a different flavor profile, consider using lentils or even diced sweet potatoes. Be mindful of cooking times, as these alternatives may require adjustments—sweet potatoes should be pre-cooked slightly to soften them before adding to the tagine.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

2 lbs chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
2 onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup chopped tomatoes
Fresh cilantro for garnish

For Serving

Cooked couscous or rice

Preparation Steps

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onions and mincing the garlic. Halve the dried apricots and drain the chickpeas.

Brown the Chicken

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

Sauté the Onions and Spices

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, add chicken broth, apricots, chickpeas, and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Tagine

Cover and simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well blended.

Serve

Let the tagine rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy with couscous.

Pro Tips

Serving this dish with warm, crusty bread will soak up the delicious sauce and enhance the overall experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Moroccan Chicken Tagine is that it gets better with time. If you plan to serve this dish at a gathering, feel free to prepare it a day in advance. Just refrigerate it once cooled, and then simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you have leftovers, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge will keep them fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the tagine for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it gently on the stove to ensure evenly heated chicken and sauce.

Serving Ideas

This tagine is naturally companions with fluffy couscous, which absorbs the rich sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying meal. To elevate the dish, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and a contrast to the tender chicken. You could also serve it alongside a fresh side salad to brighten the meal with acidity and contrast the warm spices.

For a fully immersive Moroccan experience, enhance your presentation with Moroccan flatbreads, which are perfect for scooping up the tagine. A dollop of yogurt or a side of harissa can provide a refreshing or spicy kick, depending on your audience's palate. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with lamb or even tofu for a vegetarian option, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for dried apricots?

You could use dried figs or raisins if you prefer a different sweetness.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

→ Is Moroccan Chicken Tagine spicy?

No, it’s not spicy. The spices used are aromatic and flavorful but not hot.