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: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup dried apricots, halved; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 preserved lemon, quartered; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: International Comfort Kitchen

When I first tried making Moroccan Chicken Tagine, I was captivated by the rich blend of spices and the tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen. With each bite, the chicken becomes tender, absorbing the sweet and savory notes of cinnamon, turmeric, and preserved lemon. I’ve experimented with different vegetables and dried fruits, but I found that apricots and chickpeas create the perfect harmony, complementing the spices beautifully. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also an impressive dish to serve at gatherings.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:13:34.681Z

Preparing Moroccan Chicken Tagine is an adventure that transports me to vibrant markets filled with spices. I remember the first time I used a tagine pot; it helped lock in moisture, creating incredibly tender chicken. I learned the importance of layering flavors, which starts with sautéing onions and garlic before adding the spices, allowing them to blossom and infuse the dish.

One of my secrets is to let the chicken marinate in spices and a splash of olive oil for at least an hour before cooking. It not only adds depth but also enhances the overall taste. This method ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a dish I return to time and again, especially for family celebrations.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that evoke the essence of Moroccan cuisine
Tender chicken that falls off the bone in a rich, flavorful sauce
Perfect for impressing guests or cozy family dinners

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken for at least an hour is crucial for flavor development in this dish. The blend of spices and olive oil penetrates the meat, making it tender and infused with the aromatic essence of Moroccan cuisine. If time allows, marinating overnight in the refrigerator will intensify the flavors further. Use a zip-top bag for easy mixing and ensure all pieces are well-coated to maximize flavor uptake.

If you're short on time, even a 30-minute marinade can add flavor, but don’t skip this step. The marination not only enhances the chicken but also forms the base of your sauce when cooked, ensuring a rich and cohesive flavor profile throughout the dish.

Building Layers of Flavor

Sautéing the onions until they are soft and translucent is an essential step in building the flavor base of your tagine. This process releases their natural sweetness, which balances the spices and the tartness of preserved lemons. Aim for about 5-7 minutes at medium heat, stirring occasionally. If your onions start to brown too quickly, lower the heat; burnt onions can impart an undesirable bitterness to the dish.

When you brown the marinated chicken, ensure that each piece is well-seared before moving to the next. This step not only develops a rich color but also enhances the depth of the final sauce as the fond (browned bits) sticks to the pot. If using skin-on chicken, you may want to sear it skin-side down first for additional texture and flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Tagine

After cooking, let the tagine rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making each bite even more succulent. Pairing it with fluffy couscous or crusty bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce. If you have additional toppings like toasted almonds or pomegranate seeds, they add a delightful crunch and freshness that elevates the dish.

For make-ahead options, this tagine stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent drying out. If you plan to freeze it, do so after cooking and cooling. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating after freezing, add a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce's consistency.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup dried apricots, halved
2 cups chicken broth
1 preserved lemon, quartered
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour.

Sauté Onions

In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.

Brown the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pot and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in chickpeas, apricots, chicken broth, and preserved lemon. Bring to a simmer.

Cook Slowly

Cover and cook on low heat for about 60 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with couscous or bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Allow spices to develop for an even richer flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of harissa to the marinade.

Ingredient Substitutions

While chickpeas and apricots provide excellent texture and sweetness, feel free to experiment with other legumes or fruits based on your pantry. White beans can substitute for chickpeas if needed, offering a creamy texture. For dried fruits, prunes or figs could easily replace the apricots, contributing their unique sweetness and depth.

If you can't find preserved lemons, you can create a quick substitute by using fresh lemon zest and a touch of lemon juice. However, the characteristic briny flavor of preserved lemon greatly enhances the dish, so explore local markets or online shops for the best option.

Variations and Add-ins

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is versatile; adding vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers during the cooking process enriches the dish. Cut these veggies into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Add them right after cooking the onions, giving them time to soften without losing texture.

For additional flavor, consider adding a handful of olives with the other ingredients or a touch of honey towards the end of cooking for a sweet balance. Chopped nuts, like pistachios or almonds, sprinkled at the end provide not only a delicious topping but a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn’t tender after an hour of cooking, ensure you are using low heat and check the liquid level; it should be sufficient to cover at least halfway up the chicken. Add more chicken broth if necessary. If your sauce is too thin, uncover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce and thicken.

In case of over-seasoning, adding more chickpeas or vegetables can dilute the spice levels. Just ensure they cook well to meld in flavor. Always taste before serving; a spoonful of the sauce will help you adjust salt or spices as needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat for this tagine?

Yes! Lamb or beef works well too; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and add more chickpeas.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I freeze Moroccan Chicken Tagine?

Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.