Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup prunes, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisine Without Borders

I absolutely adore cooking Moroccan cuisine, and this Moroccan Chicken Tagine has become a household favorite. The combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and sweet dried fruits creates a feast for the senses. I’ve honed this recipe over time to ensure the flavors meld perfectly, with each bite transporting me to the vibrant streets of Marrakech. It's surprisingly simple to prepare and ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Trust me; this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore global flavors!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:33:34.777Z

While experimenting with different Moroccan recipes, I learned that the secret lies in the spices. I typically use a blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, which imparts a delightful warmth to the dish. I’ve also found that marinating the chicken in yogurt not only tenderizes it but also infuses it with incredible flavor. This marinade makes a noticeable difference when slow-cooked.

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to roast the vegetables alongside the chicken, allowing them to soak up the flavorful juices. The result was a beautiful marriage of tastes and textures—each bite reveals a blend of spices, sweetness from the dried fruits, and savory chicken. I highly recommend serving it over couscous to catch all those rich flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices create a complex flavor profile
Tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth
Beautifully colorful presentation that impresses at any table

The Magic of Marinating

Marinating the chicken thighs is a crucial step for enhancing the flavors in your Moroccan Chicken Tagine. By combining the yogurt with spices like cumin and coriander, you not only tenderize the meat but also infuse it with aromatic notes that create a deep, rich taste. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but for optimal results, allow the chicken to sit overnight in the fridge. This extra time lets the spices fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a dish that bursts with flavor.

If you're short on time and need a quick dinner option, you can still achieve a good flavor by marinating for the minimum time. To expedite the process, try using a fork to pierce the chicken thighs, allowing the marinade to seep in more quickly. Just remember that the longer the chicken sits, the more pronounced the spices will be, ensuring a truly memorable dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the onions and garlic, maintaining the right heat is essential. Aim for medium heat to soften the aromatics without browning them too much, as overcooked onions can develop a bitter flavor. You want them to be translucent and fragrant, which typically takes about 5 minutes. If they begin to brown, reduce the heat slightly to avoid any unwanted flavors in your tagine.

After browning the chicken thighs, ensure you scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. This action lifts the flavorful bits from the bottom, enriching the broth. Pouring in the chicken broth after browning also allows for a good simmer, which is crucial for achieving tender chicken. Pay attention to the bubbling; a gentle simmer is ideal, and you can adjust the heat as needed to maintain this throughout the cooking process.

Serving and Storing Tips

To enjoy the full experience of Moroccan Chicken Tagine, serving it over fluffy couscous or with crusty bread is a must. The couscous absorbs the rich sauce beautifully, allowing you to savor every last drop. For a really impressive presentation, drizzle a little olive oil and sprinkle some additional cilantro on top right before serving. You can also add toasted almonds or slivered pistachios for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.

If you have leftovers, the tagine stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. Just ensure you cool it completely before freezing. When ready to eat, defrost it overnight in the fridge and then reheat slowly to get that fresh, warm flavor back.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup prunes, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with yogurt, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Sauté the Base

In a tagine or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken thighs to the pot, browning them on all sides for about 8 minutes. Then pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Add Fruits and Simmer

Stir in the apricots and prunes, cover, and let it simmer on low heat for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over couscous or with crusty bread to enjoy the rich sauce.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted almonds before serving. This dish is also excellent when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld even more.

Ingredient Substitutions

While traditional Moroccan Chicken Tagine often includes apricots and prunes, feel free to experiment with other dried fruits. For a tropical twist, try substituting dried mango or pineapple. The sweetness balances beautifully with the spices, creating a unique taste without losing the essence of the dish. If you're looking for a lower sugar option, consider using unsweetened dried cherries, which add a delightful tartness.

For those who prefer a lighter option, you can swap chicken thighs for bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. While the final dish will be less juicy, marination is key to keeping them flavorful. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly, as breasts will cook faster than thighs. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Variations on the Dish

For a vegetarian take on this dish, consider using chickpeas and assorted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables with the onions, and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. The spices will still shine, and you'll end up with a hearty, satisfying meal that captures the spirit of the original tagine without meat.

If you’re in the mood for a bit of heat, adding a chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your tolerance, but even a small addition can provide an exciting kick that complements the sweetness of the fruits perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but be aware that they will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What should I serve with tagine?

Traditional accompaniments include couscous or Moroccan bread, which works well to soak up the sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can be reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, the spices used are aromatic rather than hot. If you prefer some heat, feel free to add chili flakes to taste.