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, skinless and boneless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads; 400g canned chopped tomatoes; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1/2 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Bites

I love making Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it brings a burst of exotic flavors right into my kitchen. Every bite is a harmonious blend of spices that transports me to vibrant markets filled with wonderful aromas. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become so tender that it practically melts in your mouth. Pairing the dish with couscous or bread ensures I capture every last drop of the savory sauce. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to recreate it time and again for family and friends.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:37:34.975Z

When I first tried Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I was amazed by the sweet and savory combinations that played on my palate. Using warm spices like cinnamon and cumin gave the dish complexity I had never experienced before in a chicken recipe. As I perfected my technique, I learned the importance of browning the chicken well to lock in flavors and create a rich base for the sauce.

This dish is perfect for gatherings, and I appreciate how it can easily be scaled up for more servings. My guests are always curious about the spices, and I love sharing the story of how each one contributes to the vibrant end result. Don't shy away from experimenting with quantities to find your perfect flavor balance!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices transport you to the heart of Morocco
Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a flavorful sauce
Easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd

Secrets to Perfectly Tender Chicken

For the most tender chicken in your Moroccan tagine, it's crucial to sear the thighs properly. This step not only adds a delightful depth of flavor but also creates a beautiful, golden crust. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; it should sizzle on contact. Searing for about 5-6 minutes per side ensures that the outer layer crisps up while the inside stays juicy as it continues to cook slowly in the sauce.

When it comes to the slow cooking process, patience is key. Cooking the tagine low and slow allows the chicken to absorb the rich flavors of the spices and broth. After bringing the mixture to a simmer, reducing the heat to low is essential. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 60 minutes, adjusting the time based on how tender you desire the chicken. The meat should be falling off the bone, practically melting into the sauce.

Flavor Combinations and Ingredient Tips

The blend of spices in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine creates a vibrant and aromatic profile that ties the dish together. Ground cumin and coriander are essential; they provide earthy undertones that complement the sweetness of the apricots. Don't skip the cinnamon and saffron, as they introduce warmth and an evocative aroma. If saffron is hard to find, a dash of turmeric can work as a substitute, though it won't match the unique flavor exactly.

For added depth, consider experimenting with vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes can be incorporated for extra nutrition and texture. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the chicken during the cooking process. This addition not only enhances the richness of the sauce but also gives a beautiful color contrast to the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serving Moroccan Chicken Tagine alongside fluffy couscous is traditional and allows you to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can enhance the couscous by cooking it in chicken broth instead of water. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread or flatbreads to mop up every last bite. For a more festive presentation, garnish your tagine with additional toasted almonds and fresh cilantro, adding texture and a fresh pop of color.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish actually benefits from temperature as the flavors meld together. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. The tagine also freezes well for up to two months; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
400g canned chopped tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1/2 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Steps

Sear the Chicken

In a large tagine or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear in the pot until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Stir in the spices: cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, and saffron, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Build the Sauce

Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Add the seared chicken along with the halved apricots. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook the Tagine

Reduce the heat to low, cover the tagine, and let cook for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be tender and infused with all the aromatic flavors.

Finish and Serve

Prior to serving, stir in the toasted almonds and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with couscous or bread.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, prepare the tagine a day in advance and let it sit overnight to deepen the tastes. Reheat before serving to maintain the juiciness of the chicken.

Ingredient Swap Ideas

If you're looking to lighten the dish or accommodate dietary preferences, swap out chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts. Note, however, that they may require a slight reduction in cooking time, usually around 40-50 minutes, to prevent them from drying out. Adding a bit of additional broth can help keep them moist while retaining the flavorful essence of the tagine.

Vegetarians can enjoy a similar experience by replacing chicken with chickpeas or any variety of hearty vegetables such as eggplant or zucchini. You can follow the same cooking instructions, just making sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for the vegetables as needed. This opens up the dish to allow for a variety of flavors without sacrificing the authentic Moroccan experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making a tagine is the sauce being too watery. If you notice this during cooking, allow the dish to simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes, which will help reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors. Conversely, if the sauce seems too thick, a splash of chicken broth or water can help loosen it up before serving.

Overcooking can also lead to dry chicken, so it's crucial to check for doneness based on your chicken's size. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. Remember to let the tagine rest for a few minutes after cooking – this allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy and tender outcome.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different meats for this tagine?

Yes, lamb or beef can also be used, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as those meats typically take longer to become tender.

→ What if I don’t have a tagine pot?

A Dutch oven or any heavy-bottomed pot with a lid will work just fine for this recipe.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used are gluten-free, but make sure to pair it with a gluten-free side like rice instead of couscous.