Imagine a dish that transports you to the vibrant markets of Marrakech with just one bite - our Moroccan Spiced Chicken Stew is exactly that magical culinary adventure! Packed with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and hearty chickpeas, this one-pot wonder will revolutionize your dinner routine and impress even the most discerning food lovers. Get ready to unlock the secrets of Moroccan cuisine that will make your taste buds dance with excitement!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and coriander on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully place seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onions. Sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Return chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid. Add drained chickpeas.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove lid and let the stew reduce for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Pairs wonderfully with couscous or crusty bread.
Tips
- Choose bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness - the bones add incredible depth to your stew.
- Toast your spices briefly before adding them to enhance their aromatic qualities and intensify the flavor profile.
- Don't rush the searing process for the chicken - golden-brown edges are key to developing rich, complex flavors.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Allow the stew to simmer gently; this slow cooking method helps the chicken become incredibly tender and allows the spices to meld perfectly.
- If possible, let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to further develop and settle.
- For an extra layer of authenticity, serve with warm couscous or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
