Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh: A Flavorful Moroccan Feast Made Easy

Slow cookers are a lifesaver, especially when you crave exotic flavors but lack the time for extensive cooking. This Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh recipe delivers a vibrant and aromatic Moroccan-inspired dish with minimal effort. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce with sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried apricots, and olives. The result is a complex yet comforting meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

This recipe brings the taste of Marrakesh right to your kitchen, infusing your home with warm, inviting aromas. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with conventional cooking methods. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient – simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time.

## Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh

* **Effortless Cooking:** The slow cooker does all the work! Simply combine the ingredients and let it simmer.
* **Incredible Flavor:** The combination of spices, sweet potatoes, dried apricots, and olives creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Tender Chicken:** The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is incredibly tender and moist.
* **Versatile:** This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. You can adjust the spices, add different vegetables, or use different types of dried fruit.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with vegetables, protein, and fiber, this dish is a healthy and balanced meal.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
* **Impressive yet Easy:** This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, yet it requires minimal effort to prepare.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh:

* **Chicken:** 2-2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, though thighs tend to be more moist in the slow cooker). Cut into 1-inch cubes or leave whole, depending on your preference. Cubing the chicken will allow it to absorb more of the sauce’s flavor.
* **Onion:** 1 large yellow onion, chopped. Yellow onions provide a good balance of sweetness and sharpness.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for a strong, aromatic flavor.
* **Sweet Potatoes:** 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes. Sweet potatoes add sweetness and a creamy texture to the dish.
* **Canned Diced Tomatoes:** 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Use a good quality brand of diced tomatoes for the best flavor.
* **Chickpeas:** 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained. Chickpeas add protein and fiber, contributing to a heartier meal.
* **Dried Apricots:** 1 cup dried apricots, roughly chopped. Dried apricots contribute a chewy texture and a concentrated sweetness that complements the savory spices.
* **Green Olives:** 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved. Green olives add a briny and slightly salty element to the dish, balancing the sweetness.
* **Chicken Broth:** 1 cup chicken broth. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Tomato paste adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
* **Spices:**
* 2 teaspoons ground cumin
* 2 teaspoons ground coriander
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste) – Adjust to your spice preference.
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Fresh Cilantro (optional):** For garnish. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note to the finished dish.
* **Cooked Couscous or Rice (optional):** For serving. Couscous or rice are excellent choices for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
* Chopping board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Can opener

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh:

**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**

* Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the sweet potatoes. Roughly chop the dried apricots and halve the green olives.
* If using whole chicken thighs or breasts, cut them into 1-inch cubes (optional). This step helps the chicken absorb more flavor from the sauce. If you prefer larger pieces of chicken, you can leave them whole.
* Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas.

**Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker**

* In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chickpeas, dried apricots, green olives, chicken broth, and tomato paste.

**Step 3: Add the Spices**

* In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground ginger, turmeric powder, cayenne pepper, cinnamon powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all spices are fresh for the best flavor.
* Sprinkle the spice mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.

**Step 4: Stir and Cook**

* Stir all the ingredients together well, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce and spices.
* Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness.

**Step 5: Check for Doneness**

* The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The sweet potatoes should be tender.
* If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**

* Once the Chicken Marrakesh is cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to your preference.
* Serve hot over cooked couscous or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted almonds can also be added for extra flavor and texture.

## Tips and Variations

* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
* **Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add them along with the sweet potatoes in Step 2.
* **Dried Fruit:** Experiment with different types of dried fruit, such as raisins, dates, or figs. Use the same quantity as the dried apricots.
* **Nuts:** Add a handful of slivered almonds or chopped walnuts during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added crunch and flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Replace the chicken with more chickpeas or other beans, such as cannellini beans or kidney beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
* **Add Some Heat:** Include a chopped chili pepper or a few pinches of chili flakes for an extra kick.
* **Herbs:** Experiment with other herbs, such as parsley or mint, in addition to or instead of cilantro.
* **Serving Suggestions:** This dish is also delicious served with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
* **Storage:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or in the microwave.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 35-45g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 50-60g
* Fiber: 10-15g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.*

## Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments.

* **Couscous or Rice:** As mentioned before, couscous and rice are classic choices for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
* **Quinoa:** A healthier alternative to couscous and rice, quinoa provides a good source of protein and fiber.
* **Flatbread or Naan:** Warm flatbread or naan is perfect for scooping up the chicken and vegetables.
* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and flavorful stew.
* **Yogurt Sauce:** A dollop of plain yogurt or a yogurt sauce (made with yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs) adds a cooling and tangy element to the dish.
* **Toasted Almonds:** Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for added crunch and flavor.
* **Harissa Paste:** For those who like it spicy, serve with a side of harissa paste.

## Making it Ahead and Storing

* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Simply combine them in the slow cooker in the morning and cook as directed.
* **Storage:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* **Reheating:** Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a little water or broth if the sauce is too thick.

## Troubleshooting Tips

* **Chicken is Dry:** Make sure you’re using enough liquid in the slow cooker. If the chicken is dry, add a little more chicken broth or diced tomatoes.
* **Sauce is Too Thin:** If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
* **Sauce is Too Thick:** If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water.
* **Dish is Too Spicy:** If the dish is too spicy, add a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice to help balance the flavors.
* **Vegetables are Undercooked:** If the vegetables are still hard after the cooking time, continue cooking for another 30-60 minutes, or until they are tender.

## Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh: Printable Recipe Card

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

**Ingredients:**

* 2-2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes or left whole
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
* 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup dried apricots, roughly chopped
* 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 2 teaspoons ground cumin
* 2 teaspoons ground coriander
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
* Cooked couscous or rice, for serving (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the sweet potatoes. Roughly chop the dried apricots and halve the green olives. Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas. Cube chicken if desired.
2. Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chickpeas, dried apricots, green olives, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
3. Add the spices: In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground ginger, turmeric powder, cayenne pepper, cinnamon powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Stir and cook: Stir all the ingredients together well. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Check for doneness: The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The sweet potatoes should be tender. If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once the Chicken Marrakesh is cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot over cooked couscous or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

## Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Chicken Marrakesh is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. With minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to experience the taste of Marrakesh!