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Moroccan Apricot Chicken Recipe

This Moroccan Apricot Chicken Recipe perfectly showcases those qualities by combining tender chicken with sweet dried apricots, warm spices, and a rich, flavorful sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Moroccan
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup dried apricots halved
  • 2 cups chicken broth
Moroccan Spice Blend
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon coriander
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Fresh parsley
  • Sliced almonds
  • Lemon wedges

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or deep skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. How to Make Moroccan Apricot Chicken
  2. Step 1: Season the Chicken
  3. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, cumin, paprika, ginger, turmeric, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated with the fragrant seasoning blend.
  5. Step 2: Brown the Chicken
  6. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Add the chicken and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  8. Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
  9. Add the sliced onions to the same pot and cook until softened and lightly caramelized.
  10. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The onions and garlic will form the flavorful foundation of the sauce.
  11. Step 4: Build the Sauce
  12. Add the dried apricots and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  13. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the apricots to begin softening and releasing their sweetness into the broth.
  14. Step 5: Simmer the Chicken
  15. Return the browned chicken to the pot and nestle it into the sauce.
  16. Cover and simmer gently for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The sauce will thicken slightly while absorbing the spices and apricot flavor.
  17. Step 6: Garnish and Serve
  18. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and spoon the apricot sauce generously over the top.
  19. Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, sliced almonds, and lemon wedges if desired. Serve warm with couscous, rice, or crusty bread.

Video

Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Moroccan Apricot Chicken

This dish is simple to prepare, but a few techniques can make it even more flavorful and authentic.
  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  • Brown the chicken well before simmering.
  • Choose soft, high-quality dried apricots.
  • Simmer gently rather than boiling.
  • Toast sliced almonds before garnishing.
  • Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Fresh herbs add brightness and balance the sweetness.
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.