Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Apricots
Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Apricots is a dish that feels both comforting and special. Slow-simmered chicken becomes tender in a warmly spiced sauce, while sweet apricots add balance and depth. The flavors are layered but not heavy, with gentle heat from spices like cumin and ginger, brightness from herbs, and natural sweetness that rounds everything out. Traditionally cooked in a tagine, this recipe works just as well in a heavy pot or Dutch oven, making it accessible for home cooks. It is perfect for relaxed family dinners, weekend cooking, or when you want a meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients
1.2 kg chicken thighs or drumsticks, bone-in and skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup dried apricots, halved
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Toasted almonds or sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a tagine or heavy pot over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add the sliced onion and cook until soft and lightly caramelized.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cumin, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and paprika. Stir well to coat the onions and release the spices’ aroma.
Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the onion mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.
Add the apricots, honey, and lemon juice, then gently stir to combine.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 to 50 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs and almonds before serving.
Tips for Best Results
Bone-in chicken adds more flavor and stays juicier during slow cooking.
Browning the chicken first builds a deeper base for the sauce.
Slice onions thinly so they melt into the sauce.
Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor.
Keep the heat low during simmering to prevent the sauce from reducing too fast.
Add a splash of broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Balance sweetness carefully by adjusting honey to taste.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Fresh herbs at the end brighten the entire dish.
Serve with couscous or flatbread to soak up the sauce.
Variations
Add green olives for a salty contrast to the apricots.
Replace apricots with dates or prunes for a deeper sweetness.
Use chicken breast if preferred, but reduce cooking time slightly.
Add chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
Include saffron threads for a luxurious aroma.
Make it spicy with a pinch of chili flakes or harissa.
Use preserved lemon for extra tanginess.
Swap chicken for lamb pieces for a richer tagine.
Add carrots or sweet potatoes for a heartier dish.
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Q & A
Can I make this without a tagine?
Yes, a Dutch oven or heavy pot works perfectly.
Are dried apricots necessary?
They provide signature sweetness, but other dried fruits can be used.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, flavors improve after resting overnight in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze for up to two months.
What should I serve with it?
Couscous, rice, or warm flatbread are ideal.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, simply reduce or omit the honey.
Is this dish spicy?
It is warmly spiced, not hot.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to avoid dryness.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 520mg
Conclusion
Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Apricots is a beautiful balance of savory and sweet, rich yet light, and deeply satisfying without being complicated. It brings bold flavor to the table using simple techniques and accessible ingredients. Whether cooked for guests or enjoyed as a comforting family meal, this dish delivers warmth and character in every bite. Once you make it, it often becomes a recipe you return to whenever you want something familiar but special.