Apricot Almond Chicken Tagine

- Recipe Introduction
- What Makes This Almond Chicken Tagine So Special?
- Getting Ready to Cook: The Star Ingredients
- Ingredients Breakdown: No Fuss, Just Flavour
- Cooking up a Moroccan Feast: Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine
- Recipe Notes for Your Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine Adventure!
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip to Morocco without leaving your kitchen? Ever craved something both comforting and exotic? My Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine recipe is a total game changer.
It’s sweet, nutty, and packed with warm spices.
Brief Overview
This is one of those Moroccan recipes that sings of North African culture. It's got history, flavour, and is easier than you think! The recipe is medium difficulty, taking about an hour and 40 minutes in total.
This recipe makes enough for 4-6 hungry people.
Main Benefits
Chicken tagine with dried fruit is a winner! The combination of tender chicken and sweet apricots offers a boost of energy and happiness.
This dish is perfect for a Delicious Dinner Party Recipes, it’s special because it brings a touch of Moroccan magic to your table.
What Makes This Almond Chicken Tagine So Special?
Have you ever tried those spiced chicken recipes that just hit the spot? This tagine is one of them! It's bursting with the flavours of ginger, cinnamon, and saffron.
Honestly, the smell alone is enough to make your mouth water.
The beauty of Moroccan dishes like this, is how they're so easily adjusted. This is because the base recipe is very forgiving.
Want to reduce the sweetness? No problem, just use fewer apricots!
Getting Ready to Cook: The Star Ingredients
Let's talk ingredients. You'll need chicken thighs, onion, garlic, ginger, and a bunch of spices. Don't forget the star players: dried apricots and slivered almonds! Saffron threads are optional, but they add an extra layer of flavour.
And for the Moroccan Chicken with Couscous we will use couscous or rice.
Right, let’s get down to brass tacks, shall we? Making cracking Moroccan recipes is all about having the right bits and bobs.
Let's break down what you'll need for this beaut Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine , so you can become a tagine boss!
Ingredients Breakdown: No Fuss, Just Flavour
Right then, here's what we need, precise as you like.
Main Ingredients Sorted
Chicken Thighs: 2 lbs (900g) , boneless, skinless, and chopped into 1 inch bits. Look for free range chicken. It just tastes better, you know?
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Get the good stuff. Extra virgin, naturally.
Onion: 1 large (about 1 cup, 150g) , chopped. Any old onion will do, but red onions adds a nice bit of sweetness.
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, always.
Fresh Ginger: 1 inch (2.5cm) piece, peeled and grated. It's got to be fresh, don't use that powdered rubbish.
Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon – rounds out the flavour.
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon . Adds that lovely warmth.
Ground Turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon . Adds a nice yellow colour and earthy flavour.
Saffron Threads: 1/4 teaspoon , lightly crushed (optional, but oh-so-worth it!). It's pricey, I know, but a little goes a long way.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon . Sea salt, if you're feeling posh.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon . Freshly ground, of course.
Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) , undrained. Tinned is fine, no need to go overboard.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml) . Homemade is lush, but a good stock cube will do.
Dried Apricots: 1/2 cup (75g) , halved or quartered. Get the juicy ones, not those rock hard things.
Slivered Almonds: 1/4 cup (35g) , toasted. Toasting is key, trust me.
Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons , chopped, for garnish. If you're not a fan, use parsley.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Freshly squeezed is always best.
Seasoning and Flavour Bomb
Okay, so with Moroccan dishes , the spices are where the magic happens. You can mix and match a bit.
But ginger and cinnamon are non-negotiable! A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper gives it a cheeky kick. Don't have saffron? Don't sweat it! Just use a bit more turmeric for colour.
Essential Equipment: Keep It Simple
You don't need a fancy tagine pot for these Moroccan tagine recipes vegetarian , a good Dutch oven or large skillet will do.
Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: (a tagine is ideal, but not essential) .
Cutting Board.
Chef's Knife.
Measuring Cups and Spoons.
Citrus Juicer.
Honestly, a good knife and a decent pot are the most important things. You can make do with everything else.
Delicious dinner party recipes don't need loads of fancy kit! If you are looking for spiced chicken recipes or maybe North African chicken recipes , this tagine is just perfect!
Cooking up a Moroccan Feast: Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine
Fancy a trip to Morocco without leaving your kitchen? Honestly, these Moroccan recipes are easier than you think. I’m talking about Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine .
It's proper lush, packed with flavour, and guaranteed to impress. Forget beans on toast, this is next level comfort food. We're talking about delicious dinner party recipes here folks! This is not difficult, so don't panic! A small amount of prep goes a long way.
This Apricot Chicken Tagine will be your star.
Prep Like a Pro: Get Your Mise en Place Sorted
Before you even think about turning on the hob, get everything ready. Chop your onion, mince your garlic and grate your ginger.
Get your spices measured out. This stops you from flapping later. It also helps avoid that dreaded "Oh my gosh, where's the saffron?!" moment.
A little organisation goes a long way. I sometimes use a vegetable chopper to save even more time! It is faster for prep, but the sizes are never perfect!
step-by-step to Tagine Town
Right, let's get cracking with this Almond Chicken Tagine .
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your pan. Season the chicken thighs with spices, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken in batches. This gets a lovely colour on them. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Cook the chopped onion for about 5 minutes . Then, add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for another 1 minute . You want the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Build the Tagine: Stir in the saffron, if you're using it. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan. That's where the flavour is!
- Simmer Time: Return the chicken to the pan. Add the dried apricots. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes . This is crucial for getting super tender chicken.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the lemon juice, almonds, and cilantro. Serve it hot. Couscous is my go-to. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking.
Pro Tips for Tagine Perfection
Want to take your tagine to the next level? Toast your almonds before adding them. It brings out their nutty flavour and adds a lovely crunch.
And remember, low and slow is the way to go! Simmering the tagine gently is key.
One mistake I used to make? Not toasting the almonds! honestly! Also, adjust the sweetness to your taste. If apricots are too sweet, try prunes instead.
For great Spiced Chicken Recipes this one takes the biscuit. This could be your go-to dish when you are looking to create North African Chicken Recipes .
This recipe is also so customisable.
Recipe Notes for Your Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine Adventure!
Right, let's talk shop about this gorgeous Apricot Chicken Recipes & Almond Chicken Tagine. These are a few extra bits and bobs to ensure your Moroccan dishes are absolutely spot on.
Honestly, these moroccan recipes are all about flavour, so let's get it right.
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key, you know? For this bad boy , serve it up in a tagine if you have one it just adds to the whole North African Chicken Recipes vibe.
Fluffy couscous is a must to soak up all that beautiful sauce. Garnish with extra toasted almonds and a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
A side of warm Moroccan bread is brilliant for mopping up every last drop because who wants to waste any of that liquid gold? A refreshing Moroccan mint tea pairs perfectly with it.
Think delicious dinner party recipes , people.
Lock It Down: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Chicken Tagine with Dried Fruit keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container and it'll be good in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If you're thinking longer, freezing is an option. Just let it cool completely first, then freeze in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months.
For reheating, gently warm it on the hob on low heat, or in the microwave until piping hot. Honestly, it might even taste better the next day as the flavours deepen.
Mix it Up: Variations
Fancy a twist? If you're catering for vegetarians, swap the chicken for chickpeas, butternut squash and sweet potato for a Moroccan Tagine Recipes Vegetarian .
Boom! Just adjust the cooking time as needed until the veggies are tender. For a less sweet version, try using slightly fewer dried apricots or swapping them for dates.
Knowledge is Power: Nutrition Basics
Okay, let's be real this isn't exactly a salad! BUT, it does pack a nutritional punch. Chicken is a great source of protein, and apricots bring some vitamins and fibre to the party.
Almonds add healthy fats. The spices not only taste amazing, but also have anti inflammatory properties. Just be mindful of the sugar content from the apricots and maybe go easy on the couscous if you're watching your carbs.
So there you have it! These tips are just the cherry or should I say, apricot on top.
Now get in that kitchen and create some magic with this Spiced Chicken Recipes . You’ve got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a tagine, and do I need special equipment to make these Moroccan recipes?
A tagine is both a North African stew and the earthenware pot it's traditionally cooked in! While a tagine pot is lovely, you can absolutely make delicious Moroccan recipes, like our Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine, in a large skillet or Dutch oven.
The key is a heavy bottom and a tight fitting lid to trap moisture and create that slow cooked tenderness. Think of it like a culinary "Glamping" situation - traditional but not essential.
Can I make this Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine ahead of time? Leftovers, anyone?
Absolutely! In fact, like a good cup of tea, this Apricot & Almond Chicken Tagine often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Just be careful not to overheat, as the chicken can dry out a bit, mind you.
I'm watching my waistline - is there anything I can do to make this tagine healthier?
You bet! To lighten up this Moroccan recipe, use less olive oil when searing the chicken and trim any visible fat from the chicken thighs beforehand. You could also reduce the number of apricots or switch to chicken breast for less fat.
Serving with quinoa instead of couscous will also increase the protein and fibre content.
My family isn't keen on almonds. Can I substitute them or leave them out?
No worries! If almonds aren't your cup of tea, feel free to use another nut like pistachios or walnuts for a similar crunch and nutty flavour. Toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds also work well. If there's a nut allergy, you can simply omit the almonds entirely the tagine will still be delicious!
Just make sure you tell everyone what's in it!
I want to try more of the authentic Moroccan recipes. What other spices work well in Tagines?
Oh, you're diving into the deep end, are you? Besides ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric, consider exploring ras el hanout a complex Moroccan spice blend. Other spices like cumin, paprika (sweet or smoked), and a pinch of cayenne pepper can add depth and warmth.
Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect spice profile, just as you might experiment with flavours when creating a fabulous dessert.
I don't have fresh cilantro for garnish. Is there something else I can use?
While fresh cilantro adds a lovely vibrant touch, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or mint. The flavour profile will be slightly different, but still adds a fresh, herbaceous element. In a pinch, you can even skip the garnish entirely, as the tagine is already packed with flavour!
Remember - presentation is key, but flavour is king!
Apricot Almond Chicken Tagine

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 380 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |