Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine. With its warm spices and hearty ingredients, this dish transports you to the bustling markets of Morocco, all while allowing you to enjoy the simplicity of a slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and the leftovers are just as delicious.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, creamy chickpeas, and a symphony of spices creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply feeding the family, this tagine is sure to impress. And the best part? You can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other things while it simmers to perfection.

What Goes In

To create this delightful tagine, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced (1/3 cup, optional)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 Tbsp)
• 1 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
• 1 (14.5 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/3 cup diced dried apricots or whole raisins (optional)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you get started, gather the following gear to make your cooking experience smooth:

• Slow cooker – Your best friend in this recipe!
• Chopping board and knife – For all that chopping and dicing.
• Measuring spoons and cups – Precision is key for the spices.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring in all those delicious ingredients.
• Serving dish – To showcase your beautifully cooked tagine.

From Start to Finish: Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to whip up this Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. If you’re using the carrot, toss it in as well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Add the ground coriander, cumin, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to coat the onion and carrot mixture with the spices, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Next, add the diced chicken breasts to the slow cooker, mixing everything gently to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Chickpeas and Apricots

Add the drained chickpeas and the diced dried apricots (or raisins, if you prefer) to the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.

Step 6: Let It Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred when it’s done.

Step 7: Finish with Freshness

Once cooked, stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped cilantro, and parsley (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the tagine into bowls and serve hot. It pairs beautifully with couscous, rice, or even warm pita bread. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the warm, comforting feeling of a home-cooked meal.

How to Make It Lighter

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish, consider these substitutions:

• Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juiciness without much added fat.
• Reduce the amount of olive oil to 1 Tbsp.
• Incorporate more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to bulk up the dish.
• Serve with a small side of quinoa or a green salad instead of heavy sides.

Behind the Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine draws inspiration from traditional Moroccan cooking, where tagines are a staple. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. Plus, using canned chickpeas and tomatoes means you can whip this up with minimal prep time, making it a fantastic option for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their weeknight dinners.

Save It for Later

This tagine is not only delicious fresh; it also stores beautifully! If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; however, it’s best to thaw it first to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What can I serve with the tagine?

This tagine pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with warm pita bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. Just set it to cook in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.

Is this meal suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even more delicious.

What to Make After This

If you enjoy this tagine, you might also like these recipes:

• Mediterranean Chickpea Power Salad – A refreshing and nutritious salad packed with flavor.
• Honey Bbq Chicken And Rice – A sweet and savory dish that’s a hit with everyone.
• Chicken Enchilada Soup – A comforting and spicy soup perfect for chilly nights.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to experience the wonderful flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken and Chick Pea Tagine. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. This dish is sure to become a family favorite, and it might just inspire you to explore more delicious recipes from around the world. Happy cooking!