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: 4 chicken thighs, skinless and bone-in; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Couscous or crusty bread

Highlighted under: Global Feast Collection

I love making Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine on cozy nights when I crave something warm and comforting. The blend of spices fills my kitchen with an incredible aroma while the chicken becomes tender and succulent with each slow cook. I enjoy serving it over fluffy couscous or with crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it's a journey through Moroccan cuisine that excites the palate and warms the heart.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:58:36.867Z

Making Moroccan Chicken Tagine has become one of my favorite cooking experiences. The combination of spices like cumin, cinnamon, and paprika creates a unique depth of flavor that transports me to a bustling Moroccan market. Cooking it in a tagine allows for slow, even heat distribution, resulting in juicy chicken and perfectly softened vegetables.

I remember the first time I made this dish; I was amazed at how the flavors developed as it simmered. The key is to let it cook low and slow, which not only melds the spices but makes the chicken incredibly tender. It's a dish that speaks to the heart and soul of Moroccan cooking.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that tantalize your senses
Succulent chicken that falls off the bone
A comforting dish perfect for family gatherings

Unlocking the Depth of Flavors

The key to an extraordinary Moroccan Chicken Tagine lies in the spice blend. Each spice plays a crucial role; for instance, the cumin adds a warm earthiness, while the cinnamon introduces a subtle sweetness. When heating the spices, do so just until fragrant—about two minutes—this activates their essential oils and enhances their flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of saffron for an extra layer of depth, as it pairs beautifully with the chicken and creates a more vibrant dish.

If you're not a fan of any specific spices, don't hesitate to experiment! Ground coriander would be an excellent substitute for cumin, giving the dish a slightly citrusy undertone. Additionally, if cinnamon isn't your preference, consider using allspice as a warm alternative that still aligns with the Moroccan theme. Adjusting spices according to your palate is a great method to tailor this tagine to your personal taste without compromising its essence.

Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken

Searing the chicken before simmering is an essential step that not only enhances the texture but also creates a rich, flavorful base. Make sure your pot is hot enough to create a nice golden crust; if it doesn't sizzle immediately upon contact, the heat is too low. Aim for about five minutes per side, watching for that lovely golden-brown coloration. This browning process locks in moisture and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.

During the slow simmer, check the chicken's doneness after about 45 minutes. It should be tender and easily shred with a fork. If it's not there yet, give it another 10-15 minutes. If you find the sauce thickening too much, simply add a splash more chicken broth or water to maintain a lovely sauce consistency. Patience is key here; low and slow is the mantra for achieving succulently tender chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tagine

4 chicken thighs, skinless and bone-in
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

For Serving

Couscous or crusty bread

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large tagine or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Brown the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the pot and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add the Spices

Stir in cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and ginger, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Mix in Tomatoes and Broth

Add the drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients well.

Simmer the Tagine

Cover the tagine or pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, until the chicken is tender.

Add Vegetables

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the mixed vegetables and simmer until everything is cooked through.

Serve

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

Let the tagine sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in spices and olive oil overnight. This allows the spices to really penetrate the meat for a more robust taste.

Serving Suggestions

When ready to serve, fluff the couscous using a fork, which helps achieve that light, airy texture. Drizzle a little olive oil over it and toss with a pinch of salt or chopped herbs to enhance its flavor profile. Presenting the tagine in a traditional cazuela or your favorite pot adds an authentic touch, inviting diners to serve themselves and feel the communal love of Moroccan dining.

To take this dish to the next level, consider a side of preserved lemons. Chopping one thinly and tossing it into the tagine during the last 15 minutes of cooking imparts a bright, zesty flavor that beautifully contrasts the warm spices. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of herbed yogurt, providing a cooling element that balances the dish's richness' while adding a refreshing twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Moroccan Chicken Tagine makes for an excellent make-ahead meal. Prepare the dish up to the point of cooking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bring it back to a simmer over low heat until thoroughly warmed. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld, often resulting in a more robust dish the next day!

If you have leftovers—though I doubt that will happen—store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a little chicken broth to maintain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there's room for expansion as it freezes. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

While you can use chicken breast, thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor retention during cooking.

→ What if I don't have a tagine?

You can use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven; just ensure it has a tight-fitting lid.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.