Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisine Without Borders

I absolutely love the vibrant and spicy flavors found in this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine. Preparing this dish transports me to the bustling markets of Marrakech, filled with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. The combination of tender chicken, sweet apricots, and fragrant spices creates a symphony of taste that excites my palate. I often serve this dish over couscous to absorb all the delicious sauce, making it a favorite at family gatherings and dinner parties.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:45:35.149Z

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine has been a staple in my kitchen ever since I discovered tagine cooking. I love how the spices—like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon—come together to bring such unique flavors to the chicken. Cooking this dish in a tagine allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and infused with all the aromatic herbs.

One thing I found is that marinating the chicken beforehand enhances its flavor dramatically. I usually let it soak up the spices overnight, which gives a deeper taste when cooked. Don't skip this step if you want that authentic Moroccan flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that warm your soul
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
Exotic flavors that impress every guest

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving authentic Moroccan flavors in this chicken tagine lies in the spices used. Ground cumin and coriander are not just for flavor; they bring a warm, earthy undertone that complements the sweetness of the dried apricots. Cinnamon adds a hint of warmth that rounds out the dish beautifully. Make sure to use fresh spices when possible, as they significantly enhance the aroma and depth of flavor. If you find yourself without cumin, you can substitute it with ground caraway, which shares a similar aromatic profile.

The choice of chicken thighs is essential here. Their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts allows them to remain juicy and tender throughout the cooking process, especially during the long simmer. If you prefer a leaner option, you might substitute with chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly. Additionally, using skin-on chicken offers extra flavor and a rich texture as it renders down during cooking.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a soft and translucent texture before introducing the chicken. This initial step builds a flavorful base that permeates the entire dish. If you notice that the onions are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly; this will prevent bitterness from developing. An ideal sauté time is about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the sweetness of the onions to shine through before moving to the next step.

Simmering is where the magic happens. After adding the chicken broth and other ingredients, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil. A simmer at medium-low heat allows for even cooking without toughening the chicken. Cover the tagine or skillet loosely to trap some moisture while still allowing steam to escape, which helps concentrate the flavors. Aim for an internal chicken temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's perfectly cooked.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Moroccan chicken tagine can be served over fluffy couscous, but it pairs wonderfully with other alternatives like quinoa or farro that absorb the delicious sauce. To make your couscous even more flavorful, consider cooking it in a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of orange juice, enhancing the dish's sweetness and brightness. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or pine nuts on top adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

To elevate your meal, serve it with a side of tangy Moroccan carrot salad or a simple cucumber yogurt sauce. These sides provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the tagine. If you have any leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to revive the sauce’s consistency.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients for Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

4 chicken thighs, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to have all fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Moroccan Chicken Tagine.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a tagine or a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until they are soft and fragrant.

Add the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Place them into the tagine, browning on both sides.

Simmer

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and add the halved apricots and chickpeas. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat. Let it cook for about 40 minutes until the chicken is tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the tagine hot over fluffy couscous.

Enjoy this delicious and hearty Moroccan meal with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight in the spices. Serve with warm flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If dried apricots are out of season or you prefer another flavor, try substituting with dried figs or prunes, both of which will add a sweet, chewy element to the dish. For a different texture, you might also consider using fresh chopped peaches or nectarines during the final stages of cooking, adding them in about 10 minutes before serving to keep their structure.

To keep this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free couscous or serve the tagine over rice or cauliflower rice. For a vegetarian version, you can replace chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and bell peppers combined with tofu or chickpeas, keeping the spice combinations intact for that authentic Moroccan flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Moroccan chicken tagine is a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken with spices the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if the chicken is cold when you place it in the tagine, as it may need an additional 5-10 minutes to reach the desired tenderness.

Another great make-ahead option is to cook the whole tagine earlier in the week, cool it completely, and then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove until warmed through. This dish actually tastes better after a day in the fridge, as the flavors meld beautifully during storage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tagine sauce seems too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a little longer to reduce the liquid. Additionally, if you find it too thick, mix in a bit more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed after making any modifications to the liquid.

In case the chicken isn't as tender as expected, it may need additional cooking time. Ensuring the chicken simmers gently and doesn’t boil aggressively is crucial, as high heat can lead to tougher meat. If you're working with chicken breasts, check for doneness at about 25-30 minutes of cooking, as they require less time to become perfectly cooked and tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats in this tagine?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb or beef for a different flavor profile.

→ Is a tagine necessary for this recipe?

While a tagine enhances the dish, you can use a heavy skillet or Dutch oven as well.

→ What can I serve with the tagine?

Couscous or rice is perfect, as they soak up the flavors from the sauce beautifully.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables and vegetable broth for a vegan version.