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Moroccan Chicken Stew

This comforting Moroccan Chicken Stew combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices, vegetables, and sweet dried fruit for a flavorful one-pot meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Moroccan
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless Approximately 1 kg
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional, for heat
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or one 15 oz can, drained and rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Cooked couscous or rice, for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes, or until it becomes translucent and tender.
  • Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), and turmeric. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cooking

  • Increase heat to medium-high and add the chicken thighs, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
  • Brown the chicken on both sides for about 4-5 minutes until golden color is achieved.
  • Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chickpeas, and chopped apricots. Stir to combine and ensure chicken is submerged.
  • Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Allow to simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  • Add the sliced green olives and stir to enhance the flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve hot over couscous or rice, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.

Notes

Serve with warm bread to soak up the broth. Consider pairing with yogurt sauce or a side salad for added texture.
Keyword Aromatic spices, Chickpeas, Comfort Food, Moroccan Chicken Stew, One-Pot Meal