Moroccan Spiced Chicken Tagine with Couscous

Moroccan Spiced Chicken Tagine with Couscous
Servings: 4

Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tagine:

• 500g chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in)

• 2 tbsp Moroccan spice blend (Garlic, Sea Salt, Cumin, Lemon Juice Powder, Olive Oil, Parsley, Citric Acid, Chili)

• 150g natural yoghurt

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium potatoes, cubed

• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed

• 1 cup chickpeas (cooked or canned, drained)

• ½ cup dried apricots or raisins

• 1 cup chicken stock or water

• Salt (to taste)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Couscous:

• 200g couscous

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 1 cup hot water or stock

• Salt (to taste)

Preparation:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in a large bowl or dish.

2. In a separate bowl, mix:

• 150g yoghurt

• 1 tbsp Moroccan spice blend

3. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade.

4. Cover and refrigerate:

• Minimum: 2 hours

• Best: Overnight

Step 2: Cook the Base

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or tagine over medium heat.

2. Add sliced onions and sauté until:

• Soft

• Slightly golden

3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken & Vegetables

1. Add the marinated chicken to the pot.

2. Sear lightly on all sides for 5–7 minutes.

3. Sprinkle remaining 1 tbsp Moroccan spice blend and mix well.

4. Add:

• Potatoes

• Butternut squash

• Chickpeas

• Dried fruits

5. Pour in chicken stock or water (just enough to partially cover ingredients).

6. Cover and simmer on low heat:

• 40–45 minutes

• Stir occasionally

7. Cook until:

• Chicken is tender

• Vegetables are soft

Step 4: Prepare the Couscous

1. Place couscous in a bowl.

2. Pour over 1 cup hot water or stock.

3. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes.

4. Fluff with a fork.

5. Add:

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• Salt to taste

To Serve:

• Plate couscous as the base

• Add the Moroccan spiced chicken and vegetables on top

• Garnish with fresh parsley

Tips:

• Add a squeeze of lemon for extra zest

• Works great with lamb or roasted vegetables as well

• Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing chili content

Enjoy a rich, aromatic, and zesty Moroccan-inspired meal packed with bold flavors and comforting textures