Slow Cooker Chicken Tagine: A Flavorful Moroccan-Inspired Meal

Introduction

Slow Cooker Chicken Tagine is a delicious, aromatic dish inspired by Moroccan cuisine. It features tender chicken slow-cooked with warm spices, sweet dried fruits, and hearty vegetables in a flavorful sauce. Traditionally made in a clay pot called a tagine, this slow cooker version makes it easy to enjoy this classic dish with minimal effort.

Whether you’re new to Moroccan cooking or looking for a simple yet exotic meal, this slow cooker tagine is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Tagine:

• 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or drumsticks)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ½ tsp turmeric

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• ½ cup dried apricots, chopped

• ¼ cup raisins or golden raisins

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 medium carrot, sliced

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

• ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, mix cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, ginger, turmeric, salt, and black pepper.

2. Rub the spice mixture onto the chicken pieces.

Step 2: Sauté for Extra Flavor (Optional)

3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

4. Add onions, garlic, carrots, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, apricots, raisins, honey, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

5. Place the chicken on top and cover with the lid.

Step 4: Slow Cook

6. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and flavors meld together.

7. Stir in lemon juice before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

8. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and toasted almonds.

9. Serve over couscous, rice, or with warm flatbread.

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Cooking Tips

• Bone-in chicken thighs add more flavor, but boneless chicken can also be used.

• Dried apricots and raisins provide sweetness—adjust to taste.

• Add olives for a more traditional Moroccan touch.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but they cook faster. Reduce the cooking time to 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.

2. What can I serve with Chicken Tagine?

Couscous, quinoa, rice, or flatbread are great options to soak up the sauce.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze Chicken Tagine?

Absolutely! Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

5. Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or harissa for heat.

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Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Tagine is a hassle-free way to bring the warm, rich flavors of Morocco to your kitchen. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep. Try it today and enjoy a taste of North Africa!

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