This Moroccan chicken stew with raisins, chickpeas, and lemon is a rich, comforting one-pot meal that brings together the bold, balanced flavors of North African cooking.
Tender, golden-seared chicken thighs are simmered slowly in a fragrant broth infused with garlic, warm spices, sweet raisins, lemon zest, and a touch of honey—creating a sweet-savory depth that’s both hearty and refined.
Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is perfect for cold evenings, weekend gatherings, or whenever you’re craving slow-cooked comfort food with global flair. Inspired by traditional Moroccan tagine recipes, it highlights the best of modern Moroccan cuisine: bold spices, nourishing ingredients, and feel-good flavor in every bite.
⦁ 3–5 tbsp oil
⦁ 4 lbs chicken thighs
⦁ Salt and pepper, to taste
⦁ 1 large onion, chopped
⦁ 2 tbsp fresh garlic, minced
⦁ 1 tbsp ground cumin
⦁ 1 tbsp turmeric
⦁ 1 tsp paprika
⦁ ½ tsp cinnamon
⦁ 2 tsp lemon zest
⦁ 1 tbsp flour
⦁ 3 cups chicken broth
⦁ 3 tbsp honey
⦁ 1½ cups chickpeas, rinsed and drained
⦁ ½ cup dark raisins
⦁ Cooked rice, for serving
1. Brown the Chicken
In a stew pot over medium heat (~175–190°C / 350–375°F), warm the oil. Add chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic for 5–6 minutes.
3. Add Spices
Stir in cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 30–40 seconds.
4. Deglaze and Simmer
Add broth, honey, lemon zest, and flour. Stir to combine. Return chicken to the pot and cover. Cook for 16 minutes.
5. Finish the Stew
Add raisins and cook uncovered for 18 minutes. Stir in chickpeas and simmer for another 6 minutes.
6. Serve
Serve hot over rice.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Chicken Thighs – Use bone-in, skin-on for richer flavor and juicier texture
✔ Garlic & Onion – Freshly chopped adds deep aroma; avoid pre-minced for best flavor
✔ Spices – Cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and paprika bring warmth and Moroccan depth
✔ Raisins – Dark raisins or golden sultanas work; they add sweetness and soak up flavor
✔ Chickpeas – Canned is fine, just rinse well to reduce saltiness
✔ Honey – Adds mellow sweetness that balances the spices
✔ Lemon Zest – Freshly grated for bright, citrusy contrast
✔ Broth – Chicken broth adds savory richness; use low-sodium if preferred
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Pat Chicken Dry – Helps achieve a better sear
✔ Brown in Batches – Sear thighs skin-side down in 3–5 tbsp oil over medium heat (~175–190°C / 350–375°F) until golden (about 5–6 minutes per side)
✔ Don’t Rush the Aromatics – Let onions soften and sweeten before adding spices
✔ Bloom Spices Briefly – Cooking spices for 30–40 seconds unlocks their full flavor without burning
🔥 Cooking Techniques & Temperatures
✔ Simmer Temperature – After adding broth and returning chicken, keep the stew at a gentle simmer (~90–95°C / 195–203°F)
✔ Covered Cooking – Simmer covered for 16 minutes to tenderize chicken
✔ Uncovered Finish – Add raisins and cook uncovered for 18 minutes to thicken the sauce
✔ Final Simmer – Stir in chickpeas and simmer for another 6 minutes to warm through and meld flavors
✔ Internal Temp – Chicken is done when it reaches 74°C / 165°F at the thickest part
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Sweet-Savory Balance – The raisins and honey add natural sweetness; the spices and lemon zest bring depth and brightness
✔ Optional Heat – Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a touch of spice
✔ Acidity Boost – A squeeze of lemon juice at the end lifts the flavors even more
✔ Fresh Finish – Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for color and freshness
📦 Storage
✔ Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
✔ Freezer-Friendly – Freeze stew (without rice) for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge
✔ Reheat Tip – Warm gently over medium-low heat (~65–75°C / 150–170°F), adding a splash of broth if needed
🍽 Serving
✔ Serve With – Fluffy white rice, couscous, or warm flatbread to soak up the sauce
✔ Garnish Ideas – Chopped herbs, lemon wedges, or toasted almonds
✔ Presentation Tip – Plate in wide bowls with rice on the bottom and spoon stew over top
✔ Perfect For – Cold nights, holiday dinners, or cozy Sunday meals with a Moroccan twist