Moroccan Chicken Tagine is more than just a dish – it’s a culinary journey straight to the heart of North Africa. This vibrant, aromatic meal is a beautiful blend of succulent chicken, sweet apricots, and a medley of warm spices. Perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner, the tagine embodies the essence of creativity and togetherness. The intricate dance of flavors makes it a true delight worth savoring. This recipe will ignite your senses and bring a touch of Moroccan warmth to your home, making every meal a festive occasion.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, halved
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked couscous, to serve
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large tagine or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the chicken thighs, turning to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Stir in the dried apricots, raisins, chicken broth, and chopped tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the tagine and cook for 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Moroccan Chicken Tagine over a bed of fluffy couscous, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini to the tagine for more variety and texture.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Substitutions: Swap out dried apricots with prunes or dates for a different flavor profile. Use boneless chicken if you prefer, adjusting the cook time accordingly.
Pairings
This Moroccan Chicken Tagine pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, a side of warm flatbread, and a refreshing glass of mint tea. For an indulgent treat, serve with a chilled glass of Moroccan white wine.
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