Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Worldly Favorites

I absolutely adore this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine recipe! The combination of spices and tender chicken creates a dish that transports me to the bustling markets of Morocco with every bite. Preparing this dish allows me to experiment with wonderful flavors, like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, that dance on the palate. The slow-cooking method makes the chicken unbelievably tender. Whether for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this tagine is a vibrant addition to any meal, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:34:34.641Z

Cooking this Moroccan Chicken Tagine was an adventure! I remember the first time I attempted it; the aroma of saffron and spices wafting through the kitchen was intoxicating. I've learned that taking the time to sauté the onions and spices at the beginning enhances the depth of flavor, making the dish richer.

I was initially overwhelmed by the unique combination of ingredients, but after a few tries, I found the perfect balance. Adding olives and apricots towards the end adds a lovely sweet and savory contrast. Trust me, this tagine will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that create an unforgettable taste profile
Tender chicken infused with rich flavors
Beautifully presented, making it perfect for entertaining

Understanding the Ingredients

The rich flavors in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine largely come from the spices used. Cumin and coriander are both warm spices that add depth, while cinnamon introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes. Using fresh spices is essential for an intense flavor profile, so check your pantry and replace any that are past their prime. If you're in a pinch, swap out fresh spices for ground ones—just remember to reduce the quantity by about one-third since ground spices are more concentrated.

Chicken thighs are preferred in this recipe for their ability to stay moist during cooking, even with longer simmer times. The skin-on and bone-in option also contributes to a richer flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. If you prefer a healthier version, you can use skinless thighs, but make sure to monitor the cooking time closely to avoid drying out the meat.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are just translucent is a crucial step. This process releases their natural sweetness and lays the foundation for the flavor profile of the entire dish. Aim for about 5 minutes for the onions; you should see them soften slightly without browning. If they start to brown, lower the heat to prevent bitterness.

When browning the chicken, resist the urge to disturb them too much in the pot. Allowing the skin to char and crisp up enhances both the texture and flavor. You’ll know it’s time to flip when the chicken releases easily from the pot and has a golden crust. If you're working with a non-stick pot, a bit of sticking is natural, but the browned bits will help form a rich sauce later.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create the perfect Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large tagine or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Brown the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, skin-side down. Brown the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden, then flip and brown the other side.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and turmeric to the pot. Stir well to coat the chicken, then add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer and Cook

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the chicken to simmer for 45-50 minutes until cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally.

Final Touches

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the olives and dried apricots. Once done, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve the tagine alongside couscous or bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in spices and olive oil a few hours before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply.

Serving Suggestions

For an authentic Moroccan experience, serve your tagine over a bed of fluffy couscous or with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delightful sauce. A simple side salad dressed with lemon and olive oil complements the rich flavors and adds a refreshing crunch. You might also consider pairing it with a traditional Moroccan mint tea to round off the meal.

Garnishing with fresh cilantro just before serving adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm, bold spices. If you can’t find cilantro, parsley can be a suitable alternative; however, its flavor profile will be milder.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great advantages of this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors improve the next day as they meld together. Prepare your tagine a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve it, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, if necessary.

If you're looking to store leftovers, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Simply transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and store them for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on low heat; be sure to stir occasionally and add a little broth to revive the sauce's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that chicken breasts tend to dry out faster, so reduce the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for olives?

You can omit the olives or use capers for a similar briny flavor.

→ Can I make this tagine in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors develop beautifully over time. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, the spices add warmth and depth rather than heat. Adjust spices if you prefer a spicier kick!