Description
Looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet special enough for guests? Moroccan Chicken Stew is your answer. This bold and aromatic dish features juicy chicken simmered in a tomato-rich sauce spiced with cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Perfect as a quick dinner, healthy comfort food, or a meal prep favorite, this easy recipe brings international flavor to your dinner table. Whether you’re after dinner ideas, easy recipe inspiration, or something new for your food ideas list, this stew checks every box!
Ingredients
1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.5 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley
1 cup cooked chickpeas (optional)
0.5 cup green olives (optional)
2 tablespoons preserved lemon, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste, then add diced tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked and sauce thickens.
6. Add chickpeas, olives, or preserved lemon if using. Simmer 5 more minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
For extra depth, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a touch of heat.
This stew tastes even better the next day—perfect for make-ahead meals.
Serve with couscous, rice, or flatbread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: easy recipe, chicken dinner, stew, comfort food, Moroccan food