Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp saffron threads; 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1/2 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavors Co.

I absolutely love making Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it brings a taste of the world into my home. The aromatic spices fill the air, creating a wonderful atmosphere while I cook. Plus, the combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory spices truly delights my taste buds. I've found that using a tagine (or a Dutch oven) helps retain moisture, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. This dish is perfect for gathering family and friends around the table to enjoy an exotic meal together.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:06:37.912Z

When I first tried Moroccan cuisine, I was captivated by its rich flavors and unique combinations. I remember attempting to recreate the dish at home, and after a few trials, I discovered that layering the spices while cooking brings out their full potential. Using fresh herbs enhances the overall aroma, making the meal even more enjoyable.

A little tip I picked up is to marinate the chicken in spices and yogurt for a few hours before cooking; this not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with deeper flavors. The magic of a tagine lies in its ability to meld all these ingredients harmoniously.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices and fresh herbs create a tantalizing flavor profile
Tender chicken infused with a medley of spices
Perfect for family gatherings and special occasions

Understanding the Spice Blend

The combination of spices in Moroccan Chicken Tagine is what sets this dish apart, creating a complex yet harmonious flavor profile. Ground cumin and coriander form the backbone, delivering warmth and earthiness, while cinnamon adds a sweet aroma that balances savory elements. Ginger introduces a subtle zing, and saffron elevates the dish with its unique floral notes. Be sure to measure carefully, as each spice plays a critical role in achieving that authentic Moroccan taste.

For those who may not have all these spices on hand, consider alternatives. Ground turmeric can substitute for saffron, offering a similar golden hue, albeit without saffron's distinct flavor. If you're not keen on cumin, smoked paprika could bring an interesting depth of flavor. Adjust spice levels to your preference, but be cautious; the beauty of this dish lies in the balance of its spices.

Perfecting the Tagine Cooking Technique

Cooking in a tagine or Dutch oven doesn't only add to the flavor; it also plays a vital role in texture. The conical shape of a tagine allows steam to circulate, which keeps the chicken incredibly moist. Ensure that your heat is set to medium when sautéing the initial ingredients—high heat can easily lead to burning the spices or the chicken. After adding the broth and veggies, simmer gently; a vigorous boil can toughen the chicken.

Another tip when using a tagine is to avoid leaning it directly on high heat initially. Instead, use a heat diffuser or keep it on low heat until the ingredients start to warm through. This gradual approach allows all flavors to meld while preventing the base from scorching. If you notice the sauce thickening too much during cooking, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency.

Storing and Serving Your Tagine

Once your Moroccan Chicken Tagine is ready, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheating can be done gently on the stove; add a splash of water or broth to help restore moisture. The flavors will deepen as leftovers sit, making this dish even more delectable the next day. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may dry out the chicken.

For serving, couscous is a traditional accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce of the tagine. You might also consider serving it with flatbreads for a fun, hands-on dining experience. Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro and additional toasted almonds for an appealing presentation and added crunch. If you have leftovers, using the chicken in wraps or salads can give you a different culinary experience with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp saffron threads
1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1 cup carrots, sliced
1/2 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy serving your Moroccan Chicken Tagine with couscous or rice.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, saffron, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a tagine or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the marinated chicken and cook until browned.

Add Veggies and Broth

Add carrots, chickpeas, dried apricots, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro. Serve warm with couscous or rice.

Enjoy your meal with a side of fresh bread and a salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or swapping the dried apricots for dried figs or prunes.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using skinless chicken breasts, but be mindful that they can dry out faster than thighs. To compensate, reduce the cooking time—about 20-25 minutes should suffice when using breasts. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini, and use vegetable broth to maintain moisture during cooking.

For the dried apricots, you could use prunes or figs for a different flavor profile, as both will provide natural sweetness. The almonds can be swapped for walnuts or pistachios to give a unique texture and taste, while keeping the crunch factor intact.

Variations and Additions

To enhance the nutrition of this dish, consider adding a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini during the simmering stage. These can be cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Additionally, incorporating spinach or kale at the end can add a pop of color and nutrition without altering the cooking time significantly.

For those who like their meals with a kick, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa can elevate the spice level. You can also experiment with the dried fruits; substituting with raisins or adding a couple of tablespoons of honey can create a beautiful contrast to the savory spices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the tagine after cooking. Just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for saffron?

If saffron is not available, you can use turmeric for color, but the flavor will differ slightly.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead.