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, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Adventures

I love cooking dishes that transport me to different cultures, and this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a favorite of mine. The aromatic spices and tender chicken create a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. Cooking it feels like a celebration, and it truly captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine. With warming spices like cumin and cinnamon, paired with sweet apricots and savory olives, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. It's perfect for gatherings yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:53:34.979Z

Creating the Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine was an adventure in itself. I remember being captivated by the vibrant colors and rich aromas as the spices melded together. Knowing that each ingredient played a role inspired me to perfect the balance between sweet and savory. I found that adding the apricots towards the end of cooking really enhanced their flavor without losing their texture, making every bite delightful.

This dish also brings back fond memories of a dinner party where I served it. The guests were not only impressed but were also intrigued by the unique combination of flavors. I truly believe what makes this tagine special is the slow cooking method, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb all those wonderful spices.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that create a warm, inviting atmosphere
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
A beautiful presentation that impresses guests

Understanding Tagine Cooking

Cooking in a tagine infuses the dish with unique flavors and moisture retention. The conical shape allows steam to circulate effectively, which keeps the chicken moist and tender during the cooking process. If you don't have a tagine, a Dutch oven works well too; just ensure it has a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam. Remember, slow cooking is key here, so keep the heat low to avoid boiling the ingredients, which can result in tough chicken.

A common mistake when making tagine is to rush the process. Allowing the chicken to simmer gently for the full 45 minutes allows the spices to meld beautifully and flavor the meat thoroughly. Be patient, and resist the urge to lift the lid too often; each time you do, you release precious steam that helps tenderize the chicken.

Ingredient Insights

Cumin and cinnamon are essential to achieving the traditional Moroccan flavor profile of this dish. Cumin provides a warm earthiness that balances wonderfully with the sweet apricots and olives. Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavors even further, so consider using whole seeds when possible and toasting them lightly before grinding to enhance their aroma. This simple step can make a significant difference in the final taste of your tagine.

For those looking to modify the dish, you can substitute the chicken with firm white fish like cod or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you opt for fish, reduce the cooking time to about 25 minutes and add it during the last 15 minutes of simmering to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup chicken broth
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Additional Ingredients

Instructions

How to Make Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Brown the Chicken

In a large tagine or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden, then remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and paprika, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, add the chicken broth, chickpeas, apricots, and olives. Stir to combine everything, and bring it to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and lower the heat. Let the tagine cook gently for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with couscous or crusty bread.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavors, consider marinating the chicken in spices overnight. Also, using a tagine can improve the texture and taste, but a Dutch oven works just as well.

Storage and Reheating

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day or two in advance; the flavors only deepen and improve after resting in the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture while gently warming it through.

If you want to freeze the tagine, it can last for up to three months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which will help maintain its texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To serve the tagine, traditional accompaniments include fluffy couscous or warm crusty bread. Couscous serves as an excellent base to soak up the rich sauce, and it can be flavored with a little olive oil or lemon juice for an extra zest. For a refreshing side, a simple salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs dressed with olive oil and lemon pairs wonderfully with the warmth of the tagine.

If you want to elevate your presentation, consider serving the tagine directly in the cooking pot, as it makes for an eye-catching centerpiece. Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving—its bright color and flavor enhance the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used but may require a shorter cooking time.

→ What can I serve with tagine?

Traditional sides include couscous, rice, or flatbread. You can also serve with a simple salad.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like butternut squash and increase chickpeas.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.