Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 lemon, preserved, diced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup zucchini, diced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Flavors of the Continents

I love cooking Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine because it transports me to the vibrant streets of Morocco. With a blend of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Each time I prepare it, I'm reminded of the cultural heritage behind this traditional recipe. The fusion of sweet and savory flavors always excites my taste buds. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make, allowing me to explore these rich flavors right in my kitchen.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:25:34.853Z

Cooking Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a delightful journey filled with fragrant spices and vibrant colors. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing in my family with curiosity. Using preserved lemons adds a unique tang that perfectly complements the spices.

The slow cooking method is essential for developing deep flavors, and I suggest serving it with fluffy couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. Make sure to adjust the spice levels according to your preference, as Moroccan cuisine is known for its boldness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices that awaken the senses
Tender chicken cooked to perfection
An easy way to explore Moroccan cuisine at home

Understanding Moroccan Spices

The blend of spices in Moroccan cuisine is essential for achieving that authentic flavor profile. In this tagine, spices like cumin and coriander provide a warm earthiness, while cinnamon and paprika add sweet and smoky undertones. The turmeric lends a beautiful golden hue to your dish, which makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious. When cooking, be sure to toast your spices lightly in the oil before adding other ingredients; this enhances their aromatic qualities and infuses the dish with deeper flavors.

If you're new to Moroccan cooking, consider experimenting with the spice ratios to find your perfect balance. For instance, increasing the paprika can give a spicier kick, while a dash of cayenne could elevate the heat index. Remember that spices have a shelf life, so fresh ones will offer a more vibrant taste. Investing in whole spices and grinding them right before use can make a noticeable difference in your dish's flavor.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this tagine, chicken thighs are preferable because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. Unlike chicken breast, which can dry out, thighs withstand longer cooking times while remaining flavorful. If you prefer white meat, you can substitute it with chicken breasts, but be mindful of reducing cooking time to about 20-25 minutes to keep them moist. Bone-in pieces can also be used; just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Marinating your chicken in the spice blend for at least 30 minutes—or even a couple of hours—before cooking can elevate the dish further. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful chicken. If you find yourself short on time, a quick rub on the thighs with the spices and a bit of olive oil will still impart lots of flavor during the cooking process.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

Serving this Moroccan Chicken Tagine over couscous is traditional, but it also pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa. If you want a flavorful twist, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, which brighten up the dish just before serving. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple side salad with a citrusy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the tagine.

When it comes to leftovers, store your tagine in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. The flavors often intensify after a day, making it a delicious option for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture if necessary. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 lemon, preserved, diced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup zucchini, diced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all these ingredients ready, you are set to start your Moroccan culinary adventure!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Moroccan Chicken Tagine:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large tagine or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and brown them on both sides for about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pan, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in all the spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric) and cook for another minute.

Add Chicken and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pan, add the preserved lemon, chickpeas, tomatoes, carrots, zucchini, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.

Serve

Once cooked, serve the tagine warm, ideally over a bed of fluffy couscous. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Your Moroccan Chicken Tagine is ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, let the tagine rest for a few minutes before serving. You can also sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley over the top for a vibrant finish.

Layering Flavors

One of the keys to a successful tagine is layering your flavors. Start by browning the chicken, which helps build a foundational flavor through the Maillard reaction—resulting in a crispy, golden exterior. After browning, don’t skip the part where you sauté the onions and garlic; they create a fragrant base for the dish. This step releases their natural sweetness, which balances the spices beautifully.

Remember to add the preserved lemon and vegetables toward the end of cooking to ensure they maintain some structure and don’t become mushy. This approach enhances both texture and flavor, creating a dish where you can appreciate the distinct elements with each bite.

Vegetable Variations

The beauty of this tagine is its adaptability. While the recipe calls for carrots and zucchini, feel free to incorporate a variety of vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, eggplant, or even sweet potatoes can add different textures and flavors. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking; larger pieces may require extra simmering time.

If you want to increase the nutritional value but keep it veggie-heavy, consider adding kale or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. They'll wilt perfectly without losing their vibrant color, contributing to both the health aspect and visual appeal of your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ What type of chicken is best for tagine?

Bone-in chicken pieces are ideal as they remain juicy during cooking, but boneless skinless cuts work well too.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorites like bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or eggplant.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It's mildly spiced, but you can adjust the spices to your liking. Add chili flakes if you prefer more heat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.