Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Comfort Plates

When I first tasted Moroccan chicken tagine, I was transported to a world of vibrant spices and rich flavors. Since then, I’ve been perfecting my own version, inspired by traditional recipes yet tailored to my taste. This dish is a beautiful medley of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and sweet dried fruits, all simmered together to create a fragrant, heartwarming meal. I love serving it over fluffy couscous to soak up all those delicious juices—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:33:34.702Z

I vividly remember the first time I attempted to make Moroccan chicken tagine. I was fascinated by the unique combination of spices, like cinnamon and cumin, that come together to create a symphony of flavors. I made it a point to slow-cook the chicken, which really allows the spices to infuse into the meat. The result was far beyond anything I had expected!

This recipe has taught me the beauty of balancing sweet and savory. Adding dried apricots and almonds provides a wonderful crunch and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory components of the dish. I never skip this step; it’s what elevates the tagine to another level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Tender chicken infused with aromatic spices
Perfectly paired with fluffy couscous or warm bread

Unlocking the Flavors of Tagine Cooking

A tagine pot is specifically designed to create an ideal cooking environment for slow-cooked dishes. Its conical lid allows steam to circulate while keeping moisture locked inside, resulting in tender chicken that's bursting with flavor. If you don't have a tagine, a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is a great substitute. Just be sure to monitor the heat to prevent sticking, as the tagine's shape naturally aids in even cooking.

The balance of spices in this Moroccan chicken tagine is key to achieving that authentic flavor profile. Cumin and coriander provide warmth and depth, while cinnamon adds a subtle sweetness that complements the dried apricots. When you add these spices, allow them to toast for a few minutes until fragrant; this step heightens their flavors and ensures that every bite is rich and aromatic.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavor-packed throughout the cooking process. If you're in a pinch, skinless chicken breasts can be substituted but may require less cooking time to avoid dryness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for doneness if using breasts, and consider adding a splash more chicken broth to maintain moisture.

The harmony of sweet and savory is what makes this tagine a standout dish. While dried apricots provide a lovely sweetness, feel free to experiment with other dried fruits such as figs or prunes for different flavor notes. Each will introduce its own unique character while still allowing the traditional spices to shine.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Moroccan chicken tagine:

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have everything prepared, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Moroccan chicken tagine:

Sear the Chicken

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

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.

Add Spices

Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. Stir well to coat the onions with the spices, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Add the dried apricots, seasoning with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, stir in the toasted almonds and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the tagine hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside couscous or warm bread.

Enjoy your homemade Moroccan chicken tagine!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for a few hours before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Feel free to prepare this Moroccan chicken tagine a day in advance; the flavors meld beautifully as they sit. Simply let the finished dish cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat to ensure the chicken stays tender. You can also add a splash of chicken broth if you find it too thick after refrigeration.

For longer storage, consider freezing your chicken tagine. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you’ll still enjoy that comforting, homemade taste without the fuss on a busy weeknight.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this tagine over fluffy couscous is a classic choice—it soaks up the flavorful juices beautifully. You can prepare the couscous with chicken broth instead of water for added depth. Alternatively, serve the dish with warm, crusty bread; it’s perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce.

For a fresh touch, consider accompanying your tagine with a simple salad of mixed greens, tossed with a light vinaigrette. The bright acidity will contrast nicely with the richness of the tagine, making every bite a delightful experience. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or slivers of preserved lemon for an extra layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts may dry out more easily. Thighs are preferred for their tenderness.

→ What can I substitute for dried apricots?

Dried figs or raisins work well as substitutes, adding a similar sweetness and texture.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Moroccan tagine can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables, and vegetable stock instead of chicken broth.