Save to Pinterest 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 staple in my home for busy weeknights, loved by the whole family for its warmth and depth.
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
- Step 1:
- 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)
- Step 2:
- Add the chicken sweet potatoes onion carrots garlic diced tomatoes and apricots to the slow cooker
- Step 3:
- 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
- Step 4:
- Pour in the chicken broth then drizzle the honey and lemon juice over the top
- Step 5:
- 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
- Step 6:
- Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed
- Step 7:
- To serve sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley and toasted almonds if desired. Serve hot over couscous rice or quinoa
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around this dish especially on chilly evenings when the spices feel extra comforting.
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
Calories 410 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 51 g Protein 32 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This tagine is a perfect balance of sweet and savory making every bite delightful and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What spices are used in this dish?
The dish features ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, paprika, allspice, black pepper, and a hint of cayenne for mild heat.
- → Can the chicken be seared before cooking?
Yes, searing chicken pieces in olive oil before slow cooking adds depth and richer flavor but is optional.
- → Are there any suggested side dishes?
It pairs well with couscous, rice, or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Use canned chickpeas at the start or firm tofu added in the last hour for a plant-based option.
- → How long does the cooking take?
Cook on low in the slow cooker for about 5 hours, until chicken is tender and sweet potatoes are cooked through.
- → Can toasted almonds be added?
Yes, toasted slivered almonds can be sprinkled on top for added texture and flavor.