Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup sliced olives; 1 cup preserved lemons, quartered; Salt and pepper to taste; Cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Kitchen Creations

When I discovered Moroccan cuisine, I was instantly captivated by its vibrant spices and warming flavors. This Moroccan Chicken Tagine has become one of my staples because of its incredible depth and comforting aroma. Cooking it in a tagine not only enhances the flavors but also creates a wonderfully moist chicken. The slow cooking process melds the spices beautifully, delivering a dish that's both exotic and accessible. Every time I serve it, I can't help but feel transported to a bustling Moroccan market.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:41:34.625Z

During my many culinary adventures, making this Moroccan Chicken Tagine was a game changer. The combination of saffron, coriander, and cinnamon creates a fragrance that lingers in the kitchen, tempting everyone to come join. I learned that the secret lies in allowing the spices to bloom in hot oil before adding the chicken, which unlocks their full flavor potential.

One particularly memorable night, I served this dish to friends, and it became the highlight of the evening. We shared stories around the table as a rich, herb-infused aroma filled the air. Adding olives and preserved lemons at the end provides a beautiful balance to the sweetness of dried fruits, creating an unforgettable dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with warmth
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
Richly layered flavors that impress guests

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Moroccan Chicken Tagine lies in selecting the right spices and ingredients. The combination of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon adds depth to the dish, while saffron imparts a luxurious golden hue and subtle flavor. If saffron is unavailable, you can substitute it with a pinch of turmeric for color, but be mindful that it won’t replicate the unique taste. Choosing quality, fresh spices enhances the overall experience, so consider buying whole spices and grinding them just before use for maximum aroma.

Incorporating dried apricots not only contributes natural sweetness but balances the savory notes of the dish. They soften beautifully during cooking, becoming plump and juicy, which contrast wonderfully with the saltiness of preserved lemons and olives. If you prefer a different texture or flavor, you can replace the apricots with dates or raisins, keeping in mind that the sweetness will vary. Additionally, feel free to adjust the quantities of olives and lemons based on your preference for acidity.

Mastering Cooking Techniques

Searing the chicken properly is crucial; it locks in moisture and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust that adds flavor to the sauce. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken—if it sizzles upon contact, you're on the right track. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this will trap steam and prevent that desirable browning. If necessary, sear in batches to achieve an even color and prevent the chicken from becoming stewed instead of roasted.

Simmering the tagine with the lid on is an essential step that allows the spices to meld and permeate the chicken. Keep the heat low to maintain a gentle simmer, which will result in tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken. If you notice the liquid reducing too quickly, add more chicken broth or water, only a little at a time, to prevent the dish from burning at the bottom. A properly cooked tagine should have a rich, flavorful sauce, so take care not to rush this part of the process.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful cooking experience.

For the Tagine

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup sliced olives
1 cup preserved lemons, quartered
Salt and pepper to taste
Cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your Moroccan delight.

Sear the Chicken

In a tagine or large, heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and saffron, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried apricots and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 40-50 minutes.

Finish with Olives and Lemons

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the olives and preserved lemons. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot, ideally with couscous or crusty bread.

Enjoy your Moroccan culinary adventure!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with spices for a few hours before cooking. Using a traditional tagine pot will also enhance the flavors as it locks in moisture.

Storage and Reheating

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. After cooling, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To freeze, portion the tagine into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Reheating can sometimes lead to dryness; to combat this, add a splash of chicken broth or water when warming it up. This will help revive the dish's original moistness while also blending the flavors again. If the tagine has thickened too much in the fridge, stirring in a little liquid will return it to the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of this Moroccan Chicken Tagine, serve it with fluffy couscous or warm crusty bread. Both options are perfect for soaking up the aromatic sauce and enhance the overall dining experience. A simple side of herbed yogurt can add a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the spices, enriching each bite.

If you're looking to elevate your table presentation, garnishing the tagine with toasted almonds or sesame seeds adds both texture and visual appeal. Fresh cilantro not only brightens the dish but also contributes a fresh herbaceous flavor that perfectly contrasts the richness of the tagine. This vibrant array of colors and textures creates an inviting atmosphere, perfectly setting the tone for your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, lamb or beef can also work well, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for preserved lemons?

You can use fresh lemon juice and zest in a pinch, though the flavor will differ slightly.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and chickpeas.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep as flavors deepen after being refrigerated overnight.