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There’s nothing quite like the intoxicating aroma of Moroccan spices wafting through your kitchen, beckoning you to take a seat at the table. Recently, I was searching for a way to break free from our routine dinners when I stumbled upon a treasure trove of flavors in a Moroccan-inspired dish. I decided to whip up Moroccan Apricot Chicken, featuring tender chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection, bathed in a sweet apricot glaze that dances playfully between savory and sweet.

This dish not only impresses with its vibrant colors and alluring scents, but it also requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Whether you’re looking to delight your loved ones or need a crowd-pleaser for your next dinner party, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for vegan diets—just sub in some hearty chickpeas! So grab your apron, and let’s take a flavorful journey to Morocco right from the comfort of your home!

Why is Moroccan Apricot Chicken a Must-Try?

Aromatic spices fill your kitchen with warmth and intrigue, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Minimal effort is required to create this gourmet dish that impresses with its stunning presentation. Unique flavor pairing of sweet apricots and savory spices delivers a taste explosion in every bite. Versatility makes it easy to adjust for dietary preferences, accommodating both meat lovers and vegans. Perfect for entertaining, this slow-cooked recipe allows you to spend more time with your guests while it simmers away deliciously in the background.

Moroccan Apricot Chicken Ingredients

Unlock the vibrant tastes of Morocco with these simple ingredients!

For the Chicken

Bone-in Chicken Thighs – These provide moisture and tenderness; consider boneless thighs for quicker cooking.
Olive Oil – Adds richness for sautéing; avocado oil is a great alternative if you want a different flavor.

For the Sauce

Chili Sauce – Establishes the spicy-sweet base; swap it for sriracha if you crave a little more heat.
Apricot Preserves – Contributes luscious sweetness; peach preserves can be used for a unique twist.
Dried Apricots – Enhance the dish with chewy textures; feel free to replace them with raisins or cranberries.
Moroccan Seasoning (ras el hanout) – Infuses authentic flavor; mix your own using thyme, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon if preferred.
Vanilla Extract – Deepens the flavor; almond extract can be a fragrant substitute if desired.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can brighten the dish nicely, about 2 cloves is sufficient.

For Added Nutrients

Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas) – Provide hearty plant-based protein; lentils can be a charming alternative for a different texture.
Orange Juice – Brightens the flavor with acidity; lemon juice lends a tangy touch if you prefer.

For the Finish

Slivered Almonds – Adds a delightful crunch as a garnish; walnuts or pecans work well in their place for a different nutty flavor.

Dive into the world of Moroccan Apricot Chicken and enjoy an easy yet captivating meal!

How to Make Moroccan Apricot Chicken

Heat Oil: Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toast the slivered almonds until golden brown—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
Brown Chicken: In the same skillet, brown the bone-in chicken thighs on both sides. Ensure they develop a nice golden crust, then remove the chicken from the heat.
Transfer Chicken: Set the browned chicken thighs into the slow cooker, creating a cozy base for the delicious sauce to come.
Mix Sauce: In the skillet, combine chili sauce, apricot preserves, dried apricots, Moroccan seasoning, vanilla extract, and garlic powder with the flavorful drippings. Stir well until everything blends beautifully.
Pour Sauce: Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated in that aromatic goodness.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cook for 4 to 4.5 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°-175°, and is tender to the touch.
Add Beans: Stir in the garbanzo beans and orange juice. Cook on low for an additional 15-30 minutes until everything is heated through and aromatic.
Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken garnished with the toasted almonds and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Optional: Serve over fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Moroccan Apricot Chicken

Perfect Browning: Ensure to properly brown the chicken thighs to develop rich flavors; this step is crucial for an authentic taste in your Moroccan Apricot Chicken.
Adjust Cooking Time: If using boneless chicken, reduce the cooking time to avoid dryness. Always check internal temperature for best results.
Homemade Spice Mix: Experiment with making your own Moroccan seasoning to customize spice levels and freshen up the flavor of your dish.
Texture Boost: For added texture, include chopped nuts or vegetables to the slow cooker towards the last hour of cooking for delightful surprises in each bite.
Garnish with Freshness: Don’t skip the parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that elevates your Moroccan Apricot Chicken.
Creative Variations: Feel free to swap in different dried fruits like peaches or cranberries to explore new flavor dimensions in this versatile dish.

What to Serve with Moroccan Apricot Chicken?

Create a memorable dining experience with these delightful pairings that beautifully complement the rich flavors of this dish.

Fluffy Couscous: This fluffy grain soaks up the savory apricot sauce, offering a perfect vehicle for all that deliciousness.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve a colorful medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers to add vibrant textures and earthy tones.
Minted Yogurt Sauce: A cool, tangy yogurt sauce with fresh mint cuts through the sweetness of the chicken, adding a refreshing balance.
Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is ideal for scooping up each bite of chicken and sauce, enhancing the communal dining experience.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette brings freshness, contrasting the dish’s rich flavors.
Moroccan Spiced Quinoa: This grain is not only nutritious but brings an extra layer of flavor with spices to resonate with the chicken’s Moroccan theme.
Sweet Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine pairs wonderfully, as its fruitiness brings harmony to the spice-laden chicken.
Baklava: Finish off with this sweet pastry, where the honey and nuts provide a delightful sweetness that echoes the apricot pairing beautifully.

Moroccan Apricot Chicken Variations

Discover the endless possibilities to make this dish your own, adding a twist to its delightful flavors!

Vegan Substitute: Replace chicken with double the amount of garbanzo beans for a hearty, plant-based option. This keeps the protein while embracing a veggie-forward approach.
Chicken Breasts: Feel free to swap bone-in thighs for skinless chicken breasts. Just reduce the cooking time for perfectly juicy results.
Spice It Up: Use harissa paste instead of chili sauce to add a bolder, fiery kick to your sauce. It’s a wonderful way to heat things up!
Fruit Fusion: Replace dried apricots with chopped peaches or even dried figs for a unique twist that introduces new sweetness and texture. Each fruit brings its own charm to the dish.
Nutty Alternatives: Swap slivered almonds with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch that still elevates the dish beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Introduce bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots in the slow cooker for added color and nutrition. This enhances the dish while adding a delightful texture.
Citrus Twist: Change orange juice to grapefruit or lime juice for a vibrant twist. These options bring a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
Glaze It Up: After cooking, drizzle the dish with a homemade apricot glaze made from apricot preserves and a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor richness. It’s a delightful finishing touch!

Make Ahead Options

These Moroccan Apricot Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the Moroccan seasoning up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor immensely. Additionally, you can make the sauce (sans the chicken) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker, pour the prepared sauce over it, and follow the cooking instructions as usual. This method ensures your dish remains just as delicious and flavorful while reducing your workload during hectic evenings. Enjoy the benefit of a gourmet meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Moroccan Apricot Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken separate from the sauce if possible to maintain its texture.

Freezer: Freeze Moroccan Apricot Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

Portioning: For convenience, consider freezing in individual portions. This makes for quick meals on busy days without sacrificing flavor!

Moroccan Apricot Chicken Recipe FAQs

What should I look for in ripe apricots?
When selecting apricots, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch and have a vibrant orange color. Avoid apricots with dark spots or wrinkles, which can indicate overripeness. Fresh apricots should have a sweet aroma, suggesting they are at their peak freshness.

How should I store leftover Moroccan Apricot Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, I recommend keeping the chicken separate from the sauce if possible. When reheating, gentleness is key—heat it on the stovetop over low heat to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Can I freeze Moroccan Apricot Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Moroccan Apricot Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up—this helps to avoid ice crystals forming. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

What can I do if the chicken turns out dry?
If you find your chicken has turned out dry, it may have been overcooked. To fix this, you can prepare a quick sauce by combining some chicken broth with a splash of orange juice and warming it slightly. Pour this over the chicken when serving to add moisture. For the next time, monitor your cooking time closely and use an internal temperature gauge—chicken should reach 170°-175° Fahrenheit.

Is Moroccan Apricot Chicken suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes, if there are nut allergies in the house, simply omit the slivered almonds entirely, or you can substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture without the allergens. Always double-check the labels of your ingredient brands to ensure they’re nut-free.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Moroccan Apricot Chicken?
Certainly! For a delicious vegetarian twist, you can replace the chicken with double the amount of garbanzo beans—a great source of protein. Additionally, feel free to include mixed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, which will not only add color but also create a delightful blend of flavors in your dish. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a fantastic plant-based version that everyone will love!