Easy Moroccan Chicken Tagine

This simplified chicken tagine recipe uses boneless chicken for faster cooking and includes sweet potatoes for a nutritious, hearty one-pot meal. No marination needed, yet full of flavor!

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup dried apricots or raisins (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup green olives (pitted)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 preserved lemon, sliced thinly (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Vegetable Additions (Optional)

• Zucchini – Sliced into rounds, added during the last 15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
• Carrots – Peeled and cut into thick slices, added with sweet potatoes.
• Bell Peppers – Sliced into strips or chunks, added 10–15 minutes before the end.
• Eggplant – Cubed and lightly salted before cooking, added with sweet potatoes.
• Tomatoes – Fresh, diced tomatoes (or canned), added during the simmering process for extra sauce and flavor.
• Green Beans – Cut into halves, added 10 minutes before the dish is done.
• Spinach or Kale – Stirred in at the end for added greens.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Add the boneless chicken pieces and sprinkle with cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, paprika, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices. Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Sweet Potatoes and Simmer

• Add the cubed sweet potatoes, dried apricots (if using), and green olives to the pot.
• Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken and sweet potatoes are mostly covered. Add preserved lemon slices if using.
• Stir everything gently, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes.

Step 3: Finish and Garnish

• Once the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the pot from the heat.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the chicken tagine warm over couscous, brown rice, or with whole-grain bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 12 g (natural sugars from sweet potatoes and apricots)
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Vitamins & Minerals:
• Vitamin A: 220% DV (from sweet potatoes)
• Vitamin C: 30% DV
• Iron: 15% DV