Name: Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp avocado oil; 1 1/2 lbs bone-in skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped; 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce, no salt added if possible; 2 Tbsp honey or pure maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp sea salt (to taste); 1/2 cup raisins; 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 7 reviews

If you’re longing for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and cozy warmth, my Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe is an absolute must-try. This stew marries tender, golden chicken thighs with a medley of colorful veggies and a symphony of warm spices like cinnamon and cumin. The sweetness from honey and raisins perfectly balances the slight tang of tomato sauce, while toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch. Each spoonful is like a comforting hug, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or impressing guests with something exotic yet effortlessly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden bowl filled with two main layers: the base layer is bright yellow rice mixed with dark raisins and green herbs, covering about half the bowl, with the top layer being a vibrant red sauce with chunks of red and green bell peppers and some white pine nuts scattered on top. The dish is garnished with fresh green cilantro leaves. A spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. In the background, there is a slightly blurred wooden bowl filled with the same yellow rice and rayed raisins. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a few pine nuts and green herbs scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, whether bringing sweetness, spice, or texture, to create a deeply layered and hearty stew.

Avocado oil: A neutral, heart-healthy oil perfect for crisping chicken skin without overpowering flavors.
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Ensures juicy meat with tons of flavor from the skin and bones during cooking.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and aroma as it softens during sautéing.
Red and green bell peppers: Bring crunch, color, and subtle sweetness to brighten the stew.
Carrot: Offers a slight earthiness and tender bite after cooking.
Garlic: Creates a savory depth, enhancing the overall taste.
Tomato sauce: Provides a luscious, tangy base for the stew’s sauce.
Honey or pure maple syrup: Brings a natural sweetness that balances spices and acidity.
Ground cinnamon, cumin, and coriander: These warm spices are the heart and soul of the Moroccan flavor profile.
Sea salt: Essential to enhance and harmonize all flavors.
Raisins: Add bursts of sweetness and chewy texture throughout the stew.
Pine nuts: Toasted to provide a buttery crunch as a perfect garnish.

How to Make Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the Chicken

Begin by heating avocado oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Place your chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin turns a beautiful golden brown and is irresistibly crispy. Flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. This first step is key for locking in flavor and texture, while creating a mouthwatering crust that will enrich your stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions, red and green bell peppers, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies soften but still maintain a pleasant crunch. This step builds the aromatic foundation, infusing the dish with natural sweetness and vibrant color.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now, stir in the tomato sauce, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, cumin, coriander, salt, and raisins. Mix thoroughly so the spices and sweetness meld beautifully with the tangy tomato base. This sauce is where the magic happens — positioning your stew perfectly between savory and sweet with enticing North African flair.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

Place the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce so they’re well submerged. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have extra time, allowing the stew to simmer an additional 25 to 30 minutes elevates the flavors, tenderizing the chicken further and thickening the sauce deliciously.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle the stew with toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and rich sauce. This final touch completes the dish, adding texture and an extra layer of flavor complexity.

How to Serve Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe

The image shows a meal with three wooden bowls and one wooden plate on a white marbled surface. One bowl is filled with yellow rice that has raisins, pine nuts, and green herbs scattered on top. Another bowl has half yellow rice similar to the first bowl and the other half contains a saucy mix with red, orange, and green vegetables, topped with raisins, pine nuts, and green herbs, with a lemon slice resting on the edge. The wooden plate has two servings of the same saucy vegetable mix with red and orange colors, garnished with green herbs. There is a small wooden bowl filled with mixed raisins nearby, and a tiny bowl holding a brown powder on the side. Fresh herbs, pine nuts, and a piece of fresh ginger root are spread around the setup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the toasted pine nuts, fresh chopped parsley or cilantro works wonderfully to add a burst of bright, herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the stew. A dollop of plain yogurt on the side can also lend a cooling creaminess that balances the warm spices.

Side Dishes

This Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe pairs perfectly with aromatic side options like ginger-turmeric rice or fluffy couscous. These grains soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully, transforming each bite into a harmonious blend of spices and textures. Serve with warm, crusty bread or flatbreads for an extra cozy meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the stew in a bright tagine or rustic clay bowl that echoes Moroccan tradition. Scatter extra pine nuts and fresh herbs on top just before bringing it to the table. For gatherings, serve individual portions in small terracotta bowls garnished with lemon wedges, so everyone can customize their zest level to their taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Moroccan Chicken Stew cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it remains flavorful and safe to eat for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This stew freezes exceptionally well. For longer storage, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the stew’s rich texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through. The stew tastes even better the next day!

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs add extra flavor and moisture, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be substituted. Just reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Is this Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe spicy?

This particular recipe leans towards warm, sweet, and savory flavors rather than heat. However, if you love spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped fresh chili to give it a little kick.

What if I don’t have pine nuts for the garnish?

No worries! You can swap pine nuts with toasted almonds, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds for a similar crunchy contrast that complements the stew beautifully.

Can this stew be made in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken first for the best flavor, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and flavors meld perfectly.

What’s the best wine to pair with Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe?

A medium-bodied red wine with fruity notes like a Grenache or Pinot Noir complements the stew’s warm spices nicely without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

Sharing the Moroccan Chicken Stew Recipe with you feels like handing over a little piece of comfort and adventure all at once. It’s an effortless way to bring a world of flavor into your kitchen and gather loved ones around a dish that truly warms the heart. Trust me, once you try it, this stew will become one of your treasured favorites, perfect for cozy dinners and memorable meals. So go ahead, simmer that pot and enjoy every delicious spoonful.