International Cuisine > African Cuisine > North African Dishes > Tagine Recipes (Various Types)

Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Almonds

A sweet and savory Moroccan tagine with tender chicken, sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and fragrant spices.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 kg Chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
  • 2 medium, chopped Onion
  • 4 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1 inch, grated Ginger
  • 1 Cinnamon stick
  • 1 tsp Turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp Ginger powder
  • a pinch Saffron threads
  • 500 ml Chicken broth
  • 200 g Dried apricots
  • 100 g, blanched and toasted Almonds
  • 2 tbsp, chopped Fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tbsp (optional) Honey
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Preparation

Start by preparing the chicken. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics

In a tagine or a large pot with a heavy bottom, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Browning the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. This will help to create a richer flavor.

Adding Spices and Liquid

Add the cinnamon stick, turmeric, ginger powder, and saffron threads to the pot. Stir to coat the chicken with the spices. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmering the Tagine

Cover the tagine (or pot) and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is very tender and cooked through. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid hasn't evaporated completely; add more broth if needed.

Adding Apricots

Add the dried apricots to the tagine during the last 20 minutes of cooking time. They will plump up and become sweet and tender.

Finishing Touches

Once the chicken and apricots are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a sweeter tagine, stir in a tablespoon of honey. Garnish with toasted almonds and fresh cilantro before serving.

Serving

Serve the Chicken Tagine hot with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g): Calories: ~180kcal, Protein: ~15g, Fat: ~8g, Carbohydrates: ~12g. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition: This tagine provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates. Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using store-bought chicken broth. Adjust salt accordingly. Consider using low-sodium broth. The apricots provide natural sweetness and some fiber. Almonds contribute healthy fats and vitamin E.

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FAQ

  • Can I use other types of dried fruit?

    Yes, you can substitute the apricots with other dried fruits like raisins, dates, or figs. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
  • Can I make this tagine in a slow cooker?

    Yes, you can. Brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics as described in the recipe. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the apricots during the last hour of cooking.
  • What if I don't have a tagine?

    A Dutch oven or any heavy-bottomed pot with a lid can be used as a substitute.