Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 kg chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 2 onions, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Culinary World Tour

I love making Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it brings together a vibrant mix of spices and tender chicken, creating a dish that's both comforting and exotic. The aromatic blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon fills my kitchen with delightful scents while the slow cooking method ensures the flavors meld beautifully. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. It's an experience in itself as we enjoy the rich flavors and unique textures that celebrate Moroccan cuisine.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:09:34.455Z

When I first tried making Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I was amazed at how simple it was to enhance the natural flavors of the dish using just a few spices. The combination of hearty chicken and fragrant spices simmering in a tagine (or any heavy pot) transforms the meal into something truly special. I realized that patience is key, as letting it cook slowly allows the spices to infuse deep into the meat, resulting in a dish that bursts with flavor.

Using fresh ingredients is essential, especially when it comes to the vegetables and herbs. I love adding dried apricots and olives to the mix, as they contribute both sweetness and saltiness, balancing the entire dish. Plus, serving it over a bed of fluffy couscous makes every bite a perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an absolute favorite in my home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that transport you to the markets of Morocco
Tender chicken that falls off the bone, soaking in rich flavors
Versatile and can be served with couscous, rice, or warm bread

Understanding the Spices

The spices in Moroccan Chicken Tagine are the stars of the dish, creating a warm and inviting aroma. Cumin and coriander are essential for that earthy depth, but they require proper toasting. Try lightly toasting these spices in the dry pot for 1-2 minutes before adding the oil, which helps release their oils and enhances their flavor significantly. The sweetness of cinnamon balances the dish, adding complexity to the overall flavor profile.

Each spice in this recipe plays a unique role in the final taste. For example, paprika brings a subtle smokiness, which complements the sweetness of dried apricots and honey in the dish. If you're looking to modify the spice level, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or using smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor. Don't be afraid to adjust these spices according to your taste preference—I personally enjoy a bit more heat!

Cooking Technique Tips

Slow cooking is a key technique that allows the flavors to develop fully in this tagine. Keeping the heat low after adding the liquids is crucial; aim for a gentle simmer rather than a boil. This ensures the chicken remains tender throughout the cooking process without drying out. If you're using a regular pot instead of a tagine, a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven will work just as well to maintain even cooking.

Monitoring the dish is important, especially in the final stages when the dried fruits are added. The last 15 minutes is when the flavors meld beautifully, so resist the urge to skip this step. If the liquid reduces too much during cooking, add a splash of extra chicken broth to keep the tagine moist and luxurious. The goal is a thick, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and combines the sweetness of the apricots with the brininess of the olives.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Ingredients

1 kg chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
2 onions, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Sauté the Onions

In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Chicken

Add the minced garlic, and cook for another minute before adding the chicken thighs. Season with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.

Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and canned tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 60 minutes.

Finalize with Fruits

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the dried apricots and olives. Stir to combine and cover again to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Once cooked, serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro over a bed of couscous or your choice of accompaniment.

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in spices and olive oil for at least an hour before cooking. Additionally, try using preserved lemons for an authentic twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Couscous is traditional, absorbing the rich sauce nicely, but you could also serve it with fluffy rice or warm pita bread. For a touch of freshness, consider a side salad with citrus dressing, which can brighten the dish and offer a contrast to the savory flavors.

If you're entertaining, serve directly from the tagine for an authentic presentation. This not only keeps the dish warm but also adds a dramatic flair to your dining experience. Don’t forget to have some extra cilantro on hand for garnishing—you can never have too much herbaceous brightness!

Storage and Make-Ahead

This tagine keeps very well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. I find that the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge, making it taste even better the next time around.

For longer storage, you can freeze the tagine for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat and enjoy a taste of Morocco anytime, even on a busy weeknight!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While you can use chicken breasts, thighs offer more moisture and flavor for this dish due to their fat content.

→ What side dishes pair well with Moroccan Chicken Tagine?

Couscous is traditional, but you can also serve it with rice or warm pita bread.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Moroccan Chicken Tagine tastes even better the next day, so it's perfect for meal prep.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and vegetables like zucchini and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian tagine.