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: 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1/4 cup almonds, toasted; 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Recipe Vault

I absolutely love making Moroccan Chicken Tagine at home because it brings the vibrant flavors of North Africa right to my kitchen. The aroma of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon fills my space, transporting me to the bustling souks of Marrakech. With tender chicken simmered in a savory, slightly sweet sauce, this dish is a true celebration of flavors. I especially enjoy serving it over fluffy couscous, soaking up every drop of that delectable sauce. It's a dish that's as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:26:34.681Z

Making Moroccan Chicken Tagine has become a special tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I cooked it; the rich aroma drew my friends in from outside. The combination of spices and dried fruits creates a depth of flavor that feels both cozy and exotic. The method of slow-simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s satisfying and layered.

One of my favorite tips is to marinate the chicken overnight with spices. This not only intensifies the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making each bite wonderfully juicy. Pairing it with artisanal bread or fluffy couscous is my go-to for a complete meal that impresses everyone!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of spices that creates a warm, inviting flavor
Tender chicken that practically falls off the bone
Perfect for meal prep or special gatherings with friends and family

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine recipe. By allowing the chicken thighs to soak in a mixture of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, you enhance the overall flavor profile. I recommend marinating for at least two hours, but if time permits, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator works wonders. This extended exposure will make the spices penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in chicken that is not just flavorful but also exceptionally tender.

It's worth noting that marinating not only improves flavor but also helps in tenderizing the chicken meat. The acidity in the spices and any added liquids breaks down the proteins, ensuring the meat cooks up to a succulent finish. If you're short on time, a quick 30-minute soak can still yield tasty results, but for the best experience, plan ahead for that extended marination.

Vegetables and Their Role

In this recipe, vegetables like carrots and chickpeas play a foundational role in balancing the dish's flavors and providing nutrition. Carrots add natural sweetness and color, while chickpeas contribute protein and fiber, making the meal more filling. When slicing your carrots, keep them uniform for even cooking—about half an inch thick is ideal. This will help them soften without turning mushy during the simmering process.

Canned diced tomatoes bring acidity and moisture, enhancing the sauce that will envelop the chicken. Should you prefer a fresher taste, feel free to substitute with fresh diced tomatoes. Just remember that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down and integrate into the sauce. Adjust the simmering time, keeping an eye on the texture to ensure that it remains hearty and not overly soupy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Tagine

2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups chicken broth
2 carrots, sliced
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1/4 cup almonds, toasted
1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large tagine pot or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Brown the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pot, browning on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Simmer with Vegetables

Stir in the carrots, chickpeas, tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and let cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.

Add Dried Fruits and Nuts

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the dried apricots and toasted almonds, allowing them to blend into the sauce.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, serve the tagine over couscous or rice, garnished with sliced olives and fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious Moroccan Chicken Tagine!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of saffron or a tablespoon of harissa paste during cooking. Serving with crusty bread will help soak up that flavorful sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Moroccan Chicken Tagine over fluffy couscous is not only traditional but also practical. The couscous soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully, ensuring that each bite bursts with taste. For a delightful contrast, you can garnish with additional olives and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of feta cheese can also add a creamy tanginess that complements the spices.

Alternatively, you can pair this dish with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. Both grains offer unique textures and will absorb the rich sauce well. If you go the quinoa route, consider using a vegetable broth instead of water during the cooking process for an extra layer of flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Moroccan Chicken Tagine is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance; in fact, the flavors deepen and blend beautifully after a night in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container and reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to ensure it stays moist during reheating.

If you find yourself with leftovers, worry not! This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and enjoy a taste of Morocco anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Yes! Swap the chicken for a mix of hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, along with chickpeas.

→ What side dishes pair well with Moroccan Chicken Tagine?

Serving it with couscous, rice, or warm pita bread enhances the experience by complementing the robust flavors.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.