Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced; 1 preserved lemon, quartered; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine, especially on weekends when I have a little more time to indulge in the cooking process. The combination of spices and tender chicken creates an explosion of flavor that transports me straight to the vibrant streets of Morocco. The slow-cooking method allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, making every bite a unique experience. I've also discovered that using preserved lemons adds a stunning depth to the dish that is simply irresistible. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-26T01:53:42.974Z

My journey into Moroccan cuisine began with this tagine, and it was a game-changer. I remember the first time I made it for friends; their eyes widened with delight as they took their first bites. The secret lies in the intricate blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, which not only flavor the chicken but also fill the kitchen with a mesmerizing aroma.

Another tip I learned was to let the dish simmer for an entire hour. This patience allows the chicken to absorb all the spices fully and become incredibly tender. I often serve it with fluffy couscous, and watching everyone eagerly dig in is the best part of my cooking adventures!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Intriguing blend of spices that awaken your senses
Tender chicken that practically falls off the bone
A dish that offers a taste of Moroccan culture right at home

Unlocking the Flavors of Moroccan Cuisine

The secret to a truly authentic Moroccan chicken tagine lies in the choice of spices. Cumin, coriander, ginger, and cinnamon come together to create a complex flavor profile that enhances the dish. Each spice plays a crucial role; for example, cumin provides warmth, while cinnamon adds a subtle sweetness. If you can, opt for fresh spices instead of pre-ground, as they will offer a more vibrant taste that elevates your dish. Toasting them lightly in the pot before adding other ingredients can also unleash their essential oils for an enhanced aroma.

Adding preserved lemons not only provides a unique tanginess but also contributes a wonderful depth to the dish. When incorporating preserved lemons, remember to adjust the salt in your recipe, as they can be quite salty themselves. If you can't find preserved lemons, a mix of zest from a fresh lemon and a bit of salt can work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. This is a dish where every ingredient counts, highlighting the importance of quality and balance in flavor.

The Art of Slow Cooking

The slow-cooking method used in this tagine allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the spices and other ingredients, resulting in tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. If you're short on time, you can speed up the process by using a pressure cooker, which can significantly reduce cooking time. However, be cautious with the timing, as overcooking in a pressure cooker can lead to dry chicken. For best results, aim for a low simmer, ensuring that the flavors meld harmoniously during the cooking process.

While the recipe suggests a 60-minute slow cook, factors like the size of your chicken thighs and the heat level can affect timing. Always check for doneness; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it's not tender enough after an hour, you can let it simmer a little longer, adding a splash more chicken broth if the mixture looks too dry. This approach allows for adjustments to achieve your ideal consistency and flavor depth.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup olives, pitted and sliced
1 preserved lemon, quartered
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large tagine or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown, then flip and brown the other side.

Sauté Aromatics

Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and all the spices, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Build the Stew

Return the chicken to the pot, and layer in the drained tomatoes, chicken broth, dried apricots, olives, and preserved lemon. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and flavors are well combined.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the tagine with warm couscous, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the spices before cooking. This will make the dish even more aromatic and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Moroccan chicken tagine, pairing it with warm couscous is traditional and practical. Couscous soaks up excess sauce beautifully, creating a comforting and cohesive meal. You can enhance the couscous by cooking it in chicken broth instead of water and adding a touch of olive oil and herbs for extra flavor. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce, giving your guest a delightful experience that complements the rich and aromatic tagine.

Don’t hesitate to top your dish with fresh cilantro just before serving. It not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that brightens up the overall flavor. Lemon wedges on the side can provide an additional zing, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their preferences, particularly if they enjoy a bit more acidity.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This tagine is an excellent make-ahead dish—its flavors only improve as they sit. Prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce. If you're planning to freeze leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

If you decide to make this tagine in advance for a gathering, consider preparing some sides ahead as well. A refreshing Moroccan salad with citrus, olives, and nuts can provide a crisp contrast and balance to the rich tagine. Such preparations will give you more time to enjoy your company on the day of your event, making the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used, they may dry out more quickly. Thighs are recommended for a juicier result.

→ What can I substitute for preserved lemons?

If you can’t find preserved lemons, a mixture of lemon juice and zest can work in a pinch for flavor.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, the tagine can be frozen. Just ensure it's completely cooled before transferring to an airtight container.

→ What side dishes pair well with this tagine?

Couscous and a simple green salad are great accompaniments to balance the flavors.