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: 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/4 cup almonds, slivered; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 preserved lemon, rinsed and chopped; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen

When I first tasted Moroccan chicken tagine, I was completely mesmerized by the blend of spices and flavors. The warmth of cinnamon, the richness of apricots, and a hint of saffron all come together in a way that just sings with every bite. I love creating this dish at home, as it brings a touch of adventure to my dinner table while being comforting and hearty at the same time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress friends and family with minimal effort.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:49:34.948Z

My journey of making the perfect Moroccan chicken tagine began with experimenting with various spice combinations. I found that using a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon really elevates the dish, creating layers of flavor that are simply irresistible. The slow-cooking process not only tenderizes the chicken but also allows the spices to infuse deeply, making every bite a little burst of Moroccan magic.

After a few attempts, I discovered that adding preserved lemons during the final stages of cooking gives an incredible pop of acidity that balances the sweetness of the apricots and honey perfectly. It’s this little insight that truly makes my tagine stand out and brings authenticity to my home kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that transport you to Morocco
Tender chicken infused with sweet and savory flavors
Perfect for sharing with family and friends

The Role of Spices

The heart of Moroccan chicken tagine lies in its aromatic spices, which not only enhance the flavor but also create an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Each spice plays a crucial role: cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of sweetness, while coriander and cumin contribute earthiness. Ground ginger brightens the dish with a fresh zing. If you're looking to customize, consider adding a touch of paprika for heat or turmeric for a vibrant hue, but be mindful that these will alter the traditional flavor profile.

When measuring spices, it's best to use fresh, high-quality ones for the most authentic experience. Ground spices can lose their potency over time, so check your pantry. If you want to explore a fresher approach, try toasting whole spices like cumin and coriander seeds before grinding them; this enhances their essential oils and brings out a richer flavor.

Ingredient Insights

While chicken thighs and drumsticks provide great flavor and tenderness, remember that darker meat tends to hold up better during long cooking times. If you prefer white meat, use chicken breasts, but reduce the cooking time to around 50 minutes to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken for bone-in lamb or beef for a richer twist, adjusting the cooking time accordingly based on meat type.

The dried apricots add a lovely sweetness that balances the savory spices. If you don't have apricots on hand, consider using prunes or dried figs, which contribute a similar texture and sweetness. The preserved lemon provides a tangy kick that brightens the dish, so don't skip it; if unavailable, a dash of lemon juice can work as a substitute but won’t provide the same depth.

Perfecting Your Tagine

Cooking in a tagine is an art of patience and temperature control. The unique shape allows the steam to circulate, yielding a tender and flavorful dish. If you're using a Dutch oven instead, ensure you cover it tightly to emulate this steaming effect. If you notice that the liquid is evaporating too quickly, reduce the heat further to prevent the chicken from drying out and ensure the sauce remains rich and luscious.

For serving, traditional Moroccan meals often include couscous or bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the tagine itself during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added texture and nutrition. Leftovers are fantastic; store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Moroccan chicken tagine:

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/4 cup almonds, slivered
1 tablespoon honey
1 preserved lemon, rinsed and chopped
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create a wonderful Moroccan dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Moroccan chicken tagine:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Brown the Chicken

Increase the heat to medium-high, add the chicken pieces, and season with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, and ginger. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 8-10 minutes.

Build the Flavor

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped apricots, almonds, and honey before covering the pot with a lid.

Slow Cook

Reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for 70 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish with Preserved Lemon

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the preserved lemon. Adjust seasoning to taste and let it meld for the final few minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot over couscous or rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious Moroccan chicken tagine!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of authenticity, serve the tagine with Moroccan flatbread and a side of spiced carrots.

Serving Suggestions

To truly embrace the Moroccan dining experience, serve your chicken tagine with fluffy couscous that absorbs the aromatic sauce beautifully. Alternatively, opt for saffron-infused rice for a complementary touch. Don’t forget traditional accompaniments like olives or a fresh salad with citrus dressing to elevate the meal's freshness and balance the rich flavors of the tagine.

If you're hosting a dinner party, consider pairing this dish with Moroccan mint tea, which helps cleanse the palate and adds a festive element to your gathering. Setting the table with vibrant dishes and warm, inviting decor can enhance the overall experience, making mealtime feel special.

Make-Ahead Tips

Moroccan chicken tagine is an ideal make-ahead meal. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. This creamy, aromatic dish tastes even better the next day as the ingredients meld together.

If you're planning a larger gathering, the recipe can easily be doubled. Just ensure your pot is large enough or divide it into two to maintain even cooking. Remember that larger quantities may require slightly more cooking time, so keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it stays tender and juicy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tagine ends up too salty, a simple fix is to add a bit more broth or water to balance the flavors. Since preserved lemons can vary in saltiness, always taste your dish before adding extra salt. Also, if the chicken is not as tender as you'd like after cooking, it may need a longer simmer. Don't rush the cooking process; low and slow is the key to a succulent dish.

Lastly, if you find the sauce too thin, simply remove the lid for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to help it reduce. Stir occasionally to ensure it thickens evenly. On the flip side, if it becomes too thick, a little extra broth will help you regain that desirable saucy consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, lamb works wonderfully in this tagine!

→ Do I need a tagine pot?

While a tagine pot is traditional, any heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven will work.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight in the fridge, making it even more delicious.