This is a variation of our Chicken Tagine Base Recipe. This chicken tagine with apricots is a beautifully balanced dish that combines warm Moroccan spices with sweet, fruity notes and savory depth. Tender chicken thighs simmer with carrots, chickpeas, and dried apricots to create a rich, comforting meal with layers of flavor. Finished with fresh cilantro and toasted almonds, this one-pan dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Culinary Tips for the Best Chicken Tagine with Apricots
- Sear for flavor. Browning the chicken creates a rich, flavorful base.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed for the best sear.
- Layer your ingredients. Start with aromatics, then build in beans and apricots for depth.
- Use the bean liquid. It adds body and enhances the sauce.
- Balance sweet and savory. Apricots and honey bring sweetness, while lemon juice adds brightness.
- Simmer gently. Keep heat low to ensure tender chicken and well-developed flavors.
- Finish fresh. Cilantro and almonds add brightness and texture.
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Chicken Thighs: Chicken breast can be used, though thighs stay juicier.
- Ras el Hanout: Substitute with a mix of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and turmeric.
- Carrots: Swap with sweet potatoes or butternut squash.
- Garbanzo Beans: Cannellini beans or other white beans work well.
- Dried Apricots: Substitute with raisins, dates, or dried figs.
- Honey: Maple syrup can be used as an alternative.
- Cilantro: Parsley can be used for a milder herb flavor.
- Almonds: Pistachios or walnuts are great alternatives.
Recipe Variations
Vegetable Forward Tagine: Add spinach toward the end of cooking.
Spiced Up Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or harissa for heat.
Tomato Based Tagine: Stir in ½–1 cup crushed tomatoes for a richer sauce.
Herb Heavy Finish: Double the parsley or add cilantro for extra brightness.
Looking for some Moroccan-inspired inspiration?
Try our base recipe, experiment with variations, and make it your own—to YOUR Taste!
Equipment Recommendations
For recipe success, use the following tools:
- 12” Skillet or Sauté Pan – ideal for searing and simmering
- Tongs – makes flipping chicken easy
- Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife – essential for prep
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – for accuracy
Check out our essential equipment guide to stock your kitchen with ALL the tools you need to prepare anything and everything!
Health Benefits of Chicken Tagine with Apricots
This dish is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that deliver both flavor and nourishment.
Chicken
Chicken is a great source of high-quality protein that supports muscle and tissue repair. Choosing lean cuts like chicken breast keeps saturated fat in check.
Garbanzo Beans
Beans are more than just tasty—they’re a nutritional powerhouse! High in fiber, plant-based protein, and essential minerals, these beans promote heart health, improve digestion, and keep you feeling full and energized.
Carrots
Carrots provide beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants that support eye health and immunity and contributes to feelings of fullness.
Spices
Using spices decreases the need for salt, which may help reduce hypertension risk and therefore promote heart health. Additionally, spices contain powerful antioxidants which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Learn more about the health benefits of spices in this article.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean Diet. It contains high amounts of heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols which may reduce inflammation. Additionally, certain nutrients require fat for absorption; using extra virgin olive oil in homemade hummus can help you get the most nutritional bang for your buck!
Apricots
Dried apricots offer natural sweetness along with fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.
Explore our Ingredient Guide for more tips on choosing the freshest, most flavorful picks for your recipes. Because great ingredients = great food! 🌟🍴
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm on its own or over couscous, rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. Pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Learn how to build a healthy balanced meal with our Whole Life Plate, meal plan, and book!
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave.
Looking for more Moroccan flavors?
Try these recipes!
- Moroccan Fish with Cilantro and Lemon
- Moroccan Salmon with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce
- Moroccan Spiced Salmon
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Unlike many other recipe blogs, we encourage you to tweak our recipes to suit your taste. Try it out, leave us a review, and tell us what changes you made! We love hearing how you make it your own.
FAQ Questions:
Can I make chicken tagine ahead of time?
Chicken tagine often tastes even better the next day because the spices have more time to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with chicken tagine?
Chicken tagine pairs well with couscous, rice, quinoa, or warm flatbread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried apricots?
Is chicken tagine spicy?
Most chicken tagine recipes are flavorful rather than spicy. They typically use aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and paprika. If you prefer more heat, you can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste.
Chicken Tagine with Apricots
Equipment
- Stovetop
Ingredients
- ~1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon ras el hanout
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt (if not in spice blend)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced carrots
- 1 15-ounce can low-sodium garbanzo beans, drained with ½ cup liquid reserved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup dried apricots, sliced
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 1 Tablespoon oil with ras el hanout, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Allow chicken to marinade for at least 30 minutes. Chicken can also marinade overnight, but not more than 24 hours.
- Heat a 12” skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add ½ Tablespoon oil. Once oil is shimmering, add chicken thighs in batches if needed, not overcrowding the pan. Sear ~3-4 minutes on each side, until chicken easily releases from pan. Remove to plate once done.
- Turn down heat to medium-low, and add diced onion and carrots. Saute for ~4-5 minutes until onions are translucent. Add garlic and saute for ~30 seconds more.
- Return chicken with juices, garbanzo beans, ½ cup bean liquid, and apricots to the pan. Simmer for ~25 minutes covered.
- Combine honey and lemon juice. Add to chicken and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes. Shred chicken into smaller pieces if desired. Sprinkle with toasted almonds and cilantro. Enjoy!
