As the sun sets over the ochre-hued landscapes of Morocco, a symphony of spices fills the air, enticing the senses with promises of warmth and comfort. At the heart of this vibrant cuisine lies one dish that encapsulates its rich heritage: Moroccan Chicken Tagine. This slow-cooked wonder combines tender chicken with an aromatic medley of spices, fruits, and vegetables — a culinary masterpiece that tells stories of ancient trade routes and lively souks bustling with flavors.
Imagine savoring each bite as you travel through time, where saffron dances alongside cinnamon, and succulent olives intermingle with zesty preserved lemons. The tagine pot itself—a conical-shaped earthenware vessel—plays an essential role in infusing every ingredient with depth while preserving moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether served during festive gatherings or simple family dinners, Moroccan Chicken Tagine invites you to explore its enchanting blend of cultures and traditions, making every meal an unforgettable journey into the soul of Morocco.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dried apricots, halved
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken: In a large tagine or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Add Spices: Stir in cumin, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to the pot along with chickpeas, chicken broth, and dried apricots. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook: Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for about 30–40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving hot with couscous or crusty bread. Enjoy!