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, bone-in and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1/2 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Essentials

When I first tried making Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I was amazed by how vibrant and aromatic the dish turned out. The combination of spices like cinnamon, cumin, and coriander creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that transports me right to the heart of Morocco. I love how the slow-cooked chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the rich flavors from the sauce, making it perfect for serving over fluffy couscous. Plus, the dried fruits add a sweet touch that balances the spices beautifully.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:29:34.446Z

As I experimented with this tagine recipe, I was surprised by how each spice contributed to the overall flavor. I made sure to toast the spices beforehand, which really enhanced their aromas and brought out their full potential. This step made a noticeable difference in the dish, resulting in a depth of flavor that I hadn’t achieved before.

Another tip I discovered is to let the tagine simmer longer than usual. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making every bite a little taste of Morocco. Don’t skip the garnish of fresh cilantro; it adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Dish
Aromatic spices that awaken your senses
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
Sweet and savory flavor harmony

Unlocking the Flavor of Spices

The spices in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine are not just for show; they truly play a critical role in developing the dish's character. Cumin and coriander add earthy undertones while cinnamon contributes warmth. A common mistake is to rush the cooking of the spices. Ensure you sauté them until they're fragrant—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes—to maximize their flavor extraction. Pay attention to how they transform during this step; you'll know they're ready when they release a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen.

For those looking to customize their flavor profile, don’t hesitate to experiment with spices. You could swap out the coriander for fennel seeds for a sweeter taste, or increase the paprika for a smokier note. Experimenting can be delightful, just be sure to taste as you go. My personal tip is to use fresh spices whenever possible, as they deliver a more intense flavor, especially in a dish centered on complex spices like this.

The Art of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture of the chicken, but timing and temperature are key. Maintain a gentle simmer—bubbles should barely be breaking the surface—rather than a rolling boil, which can dry out the meat. Our cooking range of 45-60 minutes ensures the chicken saturates with all the rich flavors from the sauce without overcooking. If you ever feel like your chicken isn't tender enough within this time, cover the pot and let it simmer a bit longer; the meat will break down beautifully.

If you're short on time, consider using chicken breasts instead of thighs. They will cook faster—about 30-40 minutes—but be cautious as they can dry out quickly. To mitigate this, reduce the heat even further and add a splash more broth. Alternatively, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken, you could add it toward the end of cooking just until warmed through for a quicker meal, allowing you to savor the vibrant flavors without the lengthy cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients for your Moroccan Chicken Tagine.

For the Tagine

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1/2 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Here’s how to create your Moroccan Chicken Tagine.

Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large tagine or heavy pot over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.

Cook Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the spices: cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, adding the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and dried apricots. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Allow to cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.

Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed. Serve garnished with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro, alongside couscous or bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy this flavorful dish with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, serve with a side of Moroccan flatbread and a salad dressed in lemon juice and olive oil. You can also add olives for an authentic touch.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, pairing this tagine with fluffy couscous is a classic choice. The couscous acts like a sponge, soaking up the savory sauce and enhancing each bite. To elevate the experience, consider fluffing your couscous with a bit of lemon zest and fresh parsley before serving. This adds a refreshing brightness that balances the dish well.

You can also serve the tagine with warm, crusty bread for an authentic touch. This not only helps in soaking up the juices but also adds a delightful texture contrast. I often find myself serving this dish family-style, straight from the tagine, allowing everyone to dig in.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're meal prepping, this tagine makes for an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it a day in advance; the flavors deepen after resting in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on low heat until bubbly. If you're freezing, ensure it cools completely before packing it into airtight containers. It freezes well for up to three months, making it a fantastic option for busy nights.

When reheating, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out. If you've frozen it, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which will help maintain texture while evenly warming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! Lamb or beef can be used, though cooking times may vary based on the meat.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for 2-3 months.

→ What can I substitute for apricots?

Dried figs or dates work well if you're looking for an alternative dried fruit.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.