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Slow Cooker Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Chickpeas

If you’re in search of a hearty and aromatic dish that transports your taste buds to the vibrant kitchens of Morocco, look no further than Slow Cooker Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Chickpeas. This delightful stew perfectly balances the warmth of spices with the sweetness of dried fruit, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Prepare it in the morning and let your slow cooker work its magic, resulting in a beautifully tender meal that is ready by dinner time.

Ingredients

To create this Moroccan-inspired dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 400 g (14 oz) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 200 g (7 oz) dried apricots, halved
• 400 g (14 oz) can of chopped tomatoes
• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh coriander or parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the chicken thighs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavour and adds a lovely colour to the dish. Once browned, transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same frying pan, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Then, sprinkle in the spices: cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Stir well for about a minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrances.

3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the sautéed mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the chickpeas, halved apricots, chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, and honey. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken and spices are well mixed.

4. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time will make the chicken incredibly tender, while the flavours develop beautifully.

5. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, taste the tagine and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander or parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous or warm crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like aubergine, sweet potatoes, and carrots. You can also add extra chickpeas or lentils for protein.

• Spice Levels: Adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced green chilli.

• Storage and Reheating: This tagine keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

• Serving Suggestions: Consider serving the tagine with a dollop of Greek yoghurt for creaminess and a sprinkling of toasted almonds for added texture.

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Chickpeas is not only a feast for the senses but also a perfect way to warm up on colder days. The combination of spices and sweetness elevates an ordinary chicken dish into a Moroccan delicacy that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the joy of eating a warming, flavourful meal that embodies the essence of North African cuisine.

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