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 skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 1/2 cup almonds, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Classics

I absolutely love preparing Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it transports my taste buds right to the heart of Morocco. The tender chicken combined with fragrant spices and sweet dried fruits creates a comforting dish that feels both exotic and familiar. I’ve experimented with different spice blends and ingredients, and have found that the balance of savory, sweet, and a touch of heat really brings this dish to life. I'm excited to share this culinary journey with you and inspire your next dinner adventure!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.897Z

From the first time I tasted a Moroccan tagine, I was fascinated by the layers of flavor that danced in my mouth. Cooking it myself has been a rewarding challenge, as the unique combination of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and ginger creates a fragrant aroma that fills the entire kitchen. I often use apricots or dates to add sweetness, which balances the savory elements of the dish.

One tip that has transformed my tagine is allowing the chicken to marinate overnight. This really allows the spices to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a truly flavorful dish. When served with fluffy couscous, it’s a meal that never fails to impress family and friends!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The aromatic spices create an unforgettable fragrance in your kitchen
Tender chicken that falls off the bone with each bite
Perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors

Understanding the Spices

The spices in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine play a pivotal role in developing its unique flavor profile. Ground cumin and coriander provide warmth while the cinnamon adds a hint of sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully. Turmeric not only gives an enticing golden color but also brings anti-inflammatory properties, enhancing both health and flavor. Don’t skimp on the spices; they are essential in transforming simple ingredients into an aromatic feast that fills your kitchen with warmth and tradition.

If you're looking to adjust the flavor complexity, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or even a dash of cayenne for extra heat. Just remember, when you introduce new spices, start small and tweak according to taste to maintain balance. Freshly ground spices provide the best flavor and aroma, so if possible, purchase whole spices and grind them just before use for maximum potency.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken thighs initially is a crucial technique that locks in moisture and enriches the dish with deep flavor. Ensure your cooking pot reaches a medium heat before adding the chicken to achieve that golden-brown crust—this typically takes about 3-5 minutes. If the chicken sticks to the pan, it likely hasn't formed a proper crust yet, so allow it to sear longer before attempting to flip it. This step is about building layers of flavor that will develop throughout the cooking process.

When combining ingredients, it’s important to allow the spices to cook briefly with the onions and garlic. This helps to release their essential oils and enhances the overall flavor depth. Cook until the mixture is fragrant, which takes about a minute. Overcooking can lead to burnt aromatics, so keep an eye on the pot during this phase. A gentle simmer helps meld the flavors, so once everything is combined, cover the pot and resist the urge to lift the lid too often—this preserves moisture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, halved
1/2 cup almonds, toasted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Stir in the grated ginger, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth and dried apricots. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the toasted almonds and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, over fluffy couscous or rice.

Pro Tips

For an authentic touch, use a traditional tagine pot. If you don't have one, a heavy pot works just fine. Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavors significantly.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of this Moroccan Chicken Tagine, serve it over fluffy couscous or rice. Both options work well to soak up the delicious sauce. For an added twist, try serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a splash of color but also brightens the dish with a fresh herbaceous note.

For an authentic touch, warm up some flatbreads on the side. They can be used to scoop up the chicken and sauce, enhancing the communal experience of the meal. If you're looking for a heartier fare, consider adding chickpeas to the tagine during the last 15 minutes of cooking for an extra source of protein and texture.

Storing and Reheating

This dish is a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing the flavors to deepen if prepared a day early. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to freeze the tagine, cool it completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and if it's too thick, adding a splash of water or broth will help restore its silky texture. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can elevate the flavors even further, adding a refreshing brightness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Lamb or beef can be delicious alternatives, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and increase the amount of vegetables.

→ What can I serve with Moroccan Chicken Tagine?

Traditionally, it’s served with couscous, but it also goes well with rice or quinoa.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day. Just reheat gently before serving.