Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup prunes, chopped; 1/4 cup almonds, sliced; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: International Food Studio

I absolutely adore cooking this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine; it’s a cherished recipe that transports me straight to the vibrant markets of Morocco. As the fragrant spices meld together, the kitchen fills with a warming aroma that promises delights to come. Every bite bursts with flavors, blending tender chicken, sweet dried fruits, and savory spices that tickle the palate. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:06:37.955Z

When I first tried making Moroccan chicken tagine, I followed a classic recipe that introduced me to the world of spices. The layering of cinnamon, cumin, and coriander played a key role in achieving the authentic flavor profile I desired. I recommend searing the chicken well to lock in moisture, which enhances its tenderness.

One special tip I've learned is to use preserved lemons — they add a unique tang that brightens the entire dish. I often garnish with fresh herbs just before serving, which elevates the colors and freshness of this gorgeous meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that create a beautiful, complex flavor
Tender chicken that practically falls off the bone
Perfectly balanced sweetness from dried fruits

Mastering the Art of Searing Chicken

Searing the chicken thighs correctly is crucial for building depth of flavor in your Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine. Heat your olive oil over medium heat and ensure that the oil is shimmering before adding the chicken. This indicates it's hot enough to create a nice crust. Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for about five minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, which adds a layer of texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.

When flipping the chicken, use tongs to avoid piercing the skin, which can release juices and lead to dryness. After searing, the chicken should be a rich brown color. If the skin discolors or sticks, your heat may be too low. Adjust accordingly for subsequent batches, and don't crowd the pan, as that will lower the temperature too much and lead to steaming instead of searing.

Balancing Flavors for Depth

The interplay of spices in this tagine is what sets it apart. Ingredients like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon not only enhance the scent but also create the foundational flavor. Toasting these spices for a minute with the onions before adding other ingredients releases essential oils, intensifying their profiles. Watch for the moment when the fragrance fills the kitchen; this is a cue that they’ve reached their peak flavor potential.

Additionally, don’t forget the role of the dried fruits! Dried apricots and prunes add sweetness that balances the savory spices. If you want to explore variations, consider substituting figs or raisins, which offer a different but equally delightful sweetness. The moisture released from the fruits also helps keep the chicken tender throughout the cooking process.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup prunes, chopped
1/4 cup almonds, sliced
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

In a large tagine or heavy skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them skin-side down. Sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables and Spices

In the same pan, add onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return chicken to the pan, and add chicken broth, chickpeas, dried fruits, and almonds. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 30 minutes.

Serve

After cooking, check for seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with couscous or crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and a bit of olive oil overnight before cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great candidate for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to 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. For freezing, consider portioning it into meal-sized containers, which helps with quick reheating later on.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to prevent drying out. If using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture but heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for even heating. This ensures that the flavors remain rich and the chicken stays tender, much like when it was freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, serve the tagine with fluffy couscous, which complements the savory sauce beautifully. Consider tossing the couscous with a bit of olive oil and lemon zest for added brightness. A dollop of Greek yogurt on top can also add creaminess and a fresh note that balances the spices perfectly.

For an authentic Moroccan touch, serve alongside warm, crusty bread, ideal for soaking up the richly flavored sauce. If you're aiming for a more complete meal, consider a simple side salad of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette, which offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tagine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but reduce the cooking time to prevent dryness.

→ What can I substitute for preserved lemons?

You can omit preserved lemons or use the zest of one lemon combined with a bit of vinegar for acidity.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Cool and refrigerate, then reheat before serving.