Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved; 2 preserved lemons, quartered; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making Moroccan chicken tagine because it transports me straight to the vibrant markets of Marrakech with each bite. The combination of warm spices creates an aromatic base that mingles beautifully with the tender chicken and sweet dried fruits. It's a dish that's as comforting as it is exotic, making it perfect for both cozy dinners and gatherings with friends. Plus, using a tagine or a good pot ensures that the chicken retains its juiciness while being infused with all the flavor. You have to try it!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:13:34.686Z

Every time I prepare this Moroccan chicken tagine, I’m reminded of a warm summer evening in Morocco, surrounded by friends and laughter. I start by sautéing onions and garlic, letting the aroma fill my kitchen, tantalizing my senses even before the spices join in. The key is to layer flavors gradually, which is why I add spices in stages for a deeper, more complex taste.

During one of my cooking sessions, I realized that adding preserved lemons at the end of cooking gives the dish a vibrant kick that balances the sweetness from the dried fruits. This simple technique truly elevates the tagine and makes it unforgettable. I just know you'll enjoy both the cooking process and the delightful results!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices like cinnamon and cumin create a warm, inviting flavor profile
Tender chicken that practically falls off the bone
A unique blend of sweet and savory that excites the palate

The Role of Spices in Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine is famous for its rich use of spices, which are essential to creating the distinctive flavor profile of this tagine. In this recipe, the warm notes of cinnamon, the earthiness of cumin, and the bright acidity of turmeric all contribute to a multifaceted taste experience. Each spice not only adds flavor but also health benefits, promoting digestion and boosting immunity, making this dish as wholesome as it is hearty.

One tip I’ve learned when using spices is to ensure they are fresh for maximum potency. Ground spices are best used within six months for optimal flavor. If you have whole spices, consider toasting them lightly in the dry pan before grinding, as this will enhance their aroma and taste, elevating your tagine.

Making the Most of Your Tagine

If you own a tagine, you'll find that its unique shape allows for efficient moisture retention, making it ideal for tenderizing meats. For the best results, use a low and slow cooking method. After browning the chicken, setting the heat to low and covering to simmer for 30 minutes will allow the flavors to combine beautifully while keeping the chicken succulent. You can also experiment with different types of meat or vegetables using the same method.

When I make Moroccan chicken tagine, I like to check the chicken towards the end of the cooking time. It should be fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. If you're using skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts instead of thighs, be aware that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Moroccan chicken tagine pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the dish. For a refreshing beverage, consider a mint tea to complement the flavors of Moroccan fare.

If you want to mix up the traditional flavors, feel free to experiment with other dried fruits like figs or prunes for a different sweetness. You can also add nuts, such as toasted almonds, for some crunch and added texture. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant or chickpeas, adjusting the cooking time as needed until they are tender.

Ingredients

Moroccan Chicken Tagine Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved
2 preserved lemons, quartered
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Mix and match your favorite ingredients to customize this dish further!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large tagine or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Brown the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Spices and Fruits

Sprinkle in the cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Add the chicken broth, dried apricots, and olives. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Infuse

Cover and let the tagine simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Finish with Preserved Lemons

Stir in the preserved lemons during the last few minutes of cooking. Remove from heat and let it rest before serving.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the tagine hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with couscous or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy the endless flavors of Morocco with every bite!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try marinating the chicken in the spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about Moroccan chicken tagine is that it stores beautifully, making it a fantastic dish for meal prep. After cooking, let the tagine cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

If you plan to make this dish in advance, consider cooking the chicken and sauce a day ahead of time. Allowing the tagine to sit overnight allows the flavors to meld even more, resulting in an even more sumptuous dish. Just remember to re-warm it slowly to keep the chicken tender.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your chicken is not as tender as you would like after the recommended cooking time, it could be due to several factors, such as the size of the chicken thighs or the temperature of the stove. If the chicken isn't falling off the bone, simply cover it and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, checking periodically until it reaches your desired tenderness.

Another common issue is a sauce that’s too thin. If you’d prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the tagine, allowing it to thicken while simmering.

Variations for Special Diets

For those following a gluten-free diet, enjoy this tagine with quinoa or a gluten-free grain instead of traditional couscous. Quinoa is a nutritious alternative that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish and adds protein to your meal. Additionally, make sure to check your olives and preserved lemons for gluten-free labeling.

If you need a low-sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of added salt during seasoning. You can also boost the flavor by adding more herbs, such as fresh cilantro or parsley, which adds freshness without the extra sodium.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but it may dry out faster. Thighs are recommended for their juiciness.

→ What can I serve with Moroccan chicken tagine?

It's traditionally served with couscous, but you can also enjoy it with rice or flatbreads.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat before serving.

→ How can I alter the sweetness of the dish?

If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the amount of dried fruits or add more savory vegetables.