Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Morocco! This incredibly easy slow cooker Moroccan chicken recipe is about to become your new obsession. With just minutes of prep time and a magical 6-hour slow cooking process, you'll create a dish so tender and aromatic that your family will think you've been secretly training with a Moroccan chef. Prepare to impress and indulge in a meal that's both comforting and excitingly exotic!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a small bowl, mix together cumin, cinnamon, and paprika to create a spice blend. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring full coverage.
- Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves.
- Grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Layer the chopped onions at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a bed for the chicken.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onions, arranging them in a single layer.
- Pour the diced tomatoes and chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring the liquid covers about half of the chicken pieces.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken and around the sides of the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and infused with Moroccan spices.
- After cooking, carefully remove the chicken thighs and place on a serving platter.
- If desired, reduce the remaining sauce in the slow cooker by setting it to high and simmering uncovered for 10-15 minutes to thicken.
- Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate in the spice blend for 30 minutes before cooking if time allows.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra richness and moisture.
- Check the chicken's internal temperature - it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can quickly sear the seasoned chicken thighs in a hot pan before placing them in the slow cooker.
- Don't skip the fresh cilantro garnish - it adds a bright, fresh finish to the rich, spiced dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or couscous.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
