Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- 1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them with salt and black pepper.
- 2. Warm the Cardamom Infused Olive Oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, then transfer them to a plate.
- 3. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.
- 4. Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir constantly for 30 seconds so the spices bloom in the oil.
- 5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then pour in the chicken stock and diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- 6. Return the chicken to the pot along with the apricots and olives. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook over low heat until the chicken is tender and cooked through, about 30 to 35 minutes.
- 7. Remove the lid, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to lightly thicken the sauce.
- 8. Taste and adjust with a little more salt or black pepper if needed.
- 9. Serve the tagine over couscous or rice, then finish with toasted almonds and chopped cilantro.
Notes
For a richer sauce, let the tagine rest for 5 minutes before serving so the flavors settle. If you prefer a sweeter finish, add a few extra apricots near the end of cooking. Use low heat once the liquid comes to a simmer so the chicken stays tender and the sauce stays balanced.
