Pin it 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 quickly became a favorite in our household thanks to its comforting spices and effortless cooking method.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: 1.5 lbs (700 g), cut into large chunks
- Sweet potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2, peeled and sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can, drained
- Dried apricots: 1/2 cup, halved
- Ground cumin: 1 1/2 tsp
- Ground coriander: 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Ground turmeric: 1/2 tsp
- Ground ginger: 1/2 tsp
- Sweet paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Ground allspice: 1/4 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, adjust to taste
- Cayenne pepper: Pinch, optional for mild heat
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml)
- Honey: 1 tbsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
- Fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley: 1/4 cup chopped
- Toasted slivered almonds: Optional for serving
Instructions
- Sear the 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.
- Combine in slow cooker:
- Add the chicken, sweet potatoes, onion, carrots, garlic, diced tomatoes, and apricots to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the spice mix:
- 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 seasoning:
- 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.
Pin it Sharing this tagine has brought so many cozy dinners and smiles to our family table.
Required Tools
Slow cooker (4-6 quart), chefs knife, cutting board, skillet (optional for searing), measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts if using almonds. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Double-check chicken broth and spice blends for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 8 g total fat, 51 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein.
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This tagine is a simple yet enchanting dish that warms both the kitchen and hearts alike.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices are used in this slow-cooked dish?
The blend includes ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, sweet paprika, allspice, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt for warming, layered flavors.
- → Can I add a vegetarian protein substitute?
Yes, chickpeas can be added at the start for a plant-based version or firm tofu in the last hour for a satisfying texture.
- → How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked?
The chicken is very tender and easily pulls apart after 5 hours on low heat, and the sweet potatoes should be soft.
- → What garnishes enhance the final dish?
Chopped fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley and toasted slivered almonds add freshness and texture when sprinkled on top just before serving.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
This slow-cooked chicken is excellent served over couscous, rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices.