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 and skin-on; 2 onions, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups diced tomatoes; 1 cup chicken stock; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Passport to Flavor

I absolutely adore cooking Moroccan food, and my favorite dish has to be this Moroccan Chicken Tagine. The aromatic blend of spices fills the kitchen with warmth, and the slow-cooked chicken becomes incredibly tender. I often serve it with fluffy couscous that perfectly absorbs the rich sauce. This recipe reflects my love for global cuisine, and I can guarantee it will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Whether for a cozy dinner or a gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:13:34.806Z

Cooking is always a journey, and my experience with this Moroccan Chicken Tagine was no exception. I remember the first time I tried this dish; I was fascinated by the bold flavor combinations of spices like cumin and cinnamon. I realized that the secret lies in marinating the chicken in the spices, which infuses every bite with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

As I prepared it, I learned the value of layering flavors. Starting with sautéing onions and garlic made the base rich before adding in the tomatoes, olives, and apricots. The slow cooking made everything tender and melded the ingredients beautifully. It’s a recipe that turns a regular weeknight into something special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that transport you straight to Marrakech
Tender chicken cooked to perfection with a flavorful sauce
Easily adapts for a cozy weeknight meal or special occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a vibrant Moroccan Chicken Tagine lies in the spices. Ground cumin, ginger, and cinnamon not only add warmth but also layer the dish with depth. Cumin offers an earthy flavor that enhances the chicken, while ginger provides a subtle heat and cinnamon rounds out the profile with sweetness. Together, these spices create an aromatic base that infuses the chicken and sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful.

Another essential component is the combination of dried apricots and green olives. The apricots contribute a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the brininess of the olives. This balance creates a dynamic flavor profile that is signature to Moroccan cuisine. Opt for high-quality olives and tender dried apricots for the best texture and flavor integration in the dish.

Efficiency in Cooking

When sautéing the onions and garlic, it's crucial to control the heat; maintain medium heat to prevent burning while allowing them to become soft and translucent. This step enhances the dish's foundation, elevating the overall sweetness of the onions, which contrasts nicely with the spices. If you accidentally overcook them, a splash of water or stock can help deglaze the pot and prevent bitter flavors from developing.

To ensure the chicken browns evenly, place it skin-side down in the pot first, allowing it to develop a crispy exterior. Resist the urge to overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve that gorgeous golden color, which will enhance the dish's aesthetics and flavor.

Ingredients for Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional Ingredients

Feel free to add in some chickpeas or carrots for extra texture.

How to Make Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with cumin, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pot, cooking until browned on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in tomatoes, chicken stock, olives, and dried apricots. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is very tender.

Serve

Serve the tagine over fluffy couscous, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy!

Pair with a nice glass of white wine or mint tea for an authentic touch.

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. This dish also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine is perfect for making ahead. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce thickens too much. This will help regain moisture and keep the chicken tender.

If you wish to save time on a busy weeknight, consider marinating the chicken the night before. This allows the spices to infuse deeply, enhancing the final flavors. Additionally, chopping the onions and tomatoes ahead of time streamlines your cooking process, making it easier to prepare as you rush to dinner.

Serving Suggestions

While fluffy couscous is a classic pairing for this tagine, consider serving it with Moroccan flatbread, which is excellent for sopping up the rich sauce. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of harissa for an extra kick. Fresh herbs, like additional cilantro or parsley, not only add color but also enhance the overall freshness of the dish.

To create a more complete meal, serve a simple side salad of arugula or mixed greens dressed with lemon and olive oil. The bright acidity from the salad will complement the richness of the tagine, providing balance to each bite. You can also accompany the dish with roasted vegetables for a nutritious and hearty spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are preferred for their moisture and flavor.

→ What if I can’t find olives?

You can omit them or replace them with capers for a different taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a variety of veggies.