Save A comforting, aromatic tagine featuring tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a gentle blend of warm spices, all simmered together in a slow cooker for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
This dish has become a family favorite for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and flavorful without hours of active cooking.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks
- Vegetables: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes, 1 large onion, finely chopped, 2 carrots, peeled and sliced, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes, drained, 1/2 cup dried apricots, halved
- Spices & Aromatics: 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp sweet paprika, 1/4 tsp ground allspice, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste), Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
- Liquids: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Finishing Touches: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley, Toasted slivered almonds (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Sear Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. (Optional, for deeper flavor.)
- Add to Slow Cooker:
- Add the chicken, sweet potatoes, onion, carrots, garlic, diced tomatoes, and apricots to the slow cooker.
- Mix Spices:
- In a small bowl, combine cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, paprika, allspice, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. Sprinkle the spice mix over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Add Liquids:
- Pour in the chicken broth, then drizzle the honey and lemon juice over the top.
- Cook:
- Gently stir to combine, cover, and cook on LOW for 5 hours or until the chicken is very tender and sweet potatoes are cooked through.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley and toasted almonds, if desired. Serve hot over couscous, rice, or quinoa.
Save Our family loves gathering around this dish, especially in colder months when the warm spices feel extra comforting.
Variation Ideas
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with canned chickpeas or cubed firm tofu. You can also add pitted green olives or preserved lemons for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot over couscous, rice, or quinoa. Pair well with Moroccan mint tea or a chilled glass of rosé.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Save
Enjoy the rich aromas and vibrant flavors of this easy slow-cooker tagine any night of the week.