4 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in for more flavor, but you can use skinless if preferred)
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped (optional, for a sweet touch)
1/4 cup green olives (pitted and halved)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Season the Chicken:
Rub the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a little bit of olive oil. Set aside.
Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix the cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, paprika, ground ginger, and ground coriander.
Brown the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat.
Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes), stirring often.
Add the Spices:
Sprinkle the spice mix over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat the ingredients in the spices. Cook for another minute or so, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
Simmer:
Stir in the tomato paste, chicken broth, chickpeas, apricots (if using), and olives. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid.
Cook the Chicken:
Cover the pot with a lid and let the chicken simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If using skin-on thighs, the skin should be crispy and golden.
Finish and Serve:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Serve with couscous, rice, or warm bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Enjoy your delicious Moroccan Chicken recipe! The combination of savory spices, chickpeas, and olives with a hint of sweetness from the apricots makes it a well-balanced and hearty meal.
