Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine

Name: Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup zucchini, chopped; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted; 1/4 cup preserved lemons, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisine Explorer

I absolutely love cooking dishes that whisk me away to far-off places, and this Global Flavors Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a perfect example. It's an aromatic and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Morocco right to my kitchen. The combination of warm spices, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables creates a beloved family meal that sparks joy in every bite. Taking the time to slowly simmer the ingredients together enhances the flavors, making it an absolute delight. Trust me, this tagine is a true celebration of global flavors!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:09:34.882Z

Creating this Moroccan Chicken Tagine became an exciting culinary adventure for me. I found that the blend of spices—cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger—transforms my kitchen into a vibrant marketplace. I began this dish by browning the chicken to enhance its flavor and give it a lovely golden color, which undoubtedly adds depth to the final result.

One tip I gladly share is to let the tagine sit for a few minutes after cooking; this resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The addition of preserved lemons and olives at the end imparts an authentic touch that transports you straight to Morocco. It’s a dish I can’t wait to make for my friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic blend of spices that awaken your senses
Tender chicken simmered to perfection for a comforting meal
A gorgeous presentation that’s perfect for entertaining

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The essence of Moroccan Chicken Tagine lies in its expertly balanced spices. Cumin and coriander not only lend warmth but also play a vital role in enhancing the aromatic profile. If you find yourself without ground ginger, consider using fresh ginger; just remember to double the amount as fresh ginger is more potent. Additionally, using high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth allows for cleaner flavors, ensuring your dish doesn’t become overly salty.

The use of preserved lemons in this recipe is not just for flavor; they add a unique tanginess that brightens the entire dish. If you can't find preserved lemons, you can create a substitute by soaking fresh lemon slices in salt for a few days. However, the authentic taste of preserved lemons is difficult to replicate fully, so if you're eager to maintain that classic Moroccan flavor, it's worth the search.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Tagine

When browning the chicken, it's crucial to let it sear without moving it too soon; resist the temptation to stir! Aim for a golden-brown color, which not only enriches the flavor but also contributes to the color of your sauce. A heavy-bottomed pot or traditional tagine offers the best heat distribution, preventing hot spots that could cause burning or uneven cooking.

Simmering is a critical step in this recipe—keeping the heat low ensures not just tenderness in the chicken but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep the lid tightly covered for the first 30 minutes, and then check the chicken for doneness. If you're unsure whether it's cooked through, a meat thermometer should read 165°F. This precision will guarantee that the chicken remains juicy and tender.

Ingredients

For the Tagine

1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup zucchini, chopped
1/2 cup green olives, pitted
1/4 cup preserved lemons, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Brown the Chicken

In a large tagine or suitable pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown them on all sides. Remove them from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Spices

Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, add the chicken broth, tomatoes, carrots, and zucchini. Stir well and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Tagine

Cover and let it simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Finish and Serve

Add olives and preserved lemons, mixing well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless. Also, don’t skip the resting time after cooking
it really enhances the flavors!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of Moroccan Chicken Tagine is its ability to improve in flavor after a day in the fridge. If you prepare it in advance, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out, and heat gently on the stove until warmed through.

Freezing is another option if you want to enjoy this meal later. Portion the tagine into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat using low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed. Making it ahead of time frees up your schedule for entertaining or busy weeknights!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Moroccan Chicken Tagine over fluffy couscous or with warm flatbread to soak up the wonderfully rich sauce. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or sesame seeds can add a nice crunch and elevate the presentation. Consider pairing it with a side salad of fresh greens, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette to contrast the hearty main dish.

For an authentic Moroccan experience, you could also present this tagine family-style in a large serving dish. This invites everyone to serve themselves while enjoying the communal aspect of dining, enhancing the flavors as they mingle on the plate with couscous or rice. For a cozy, aromatic finishing touch, serve with mint tea or a light dessert like citrus sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with lamb or beef, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I serve with this tagine?

This dish pairs wonderfully with couscous or warm pita bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and chickpeas, and adjust the cooking time to suit.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.