Easy Moroccan chicken stew with vegetables and chickpeas in a white bowl

Easy Moroccan Chicken Stew (One-Pot Dinner) Recipe

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Chef Rachel created this Easy Moroccan Chicken Stew (One-Pot Dinner) for weeknights when you crave something warm, fragrant, and still realistic after a busy day. The base is tender chicken simmered with tomatoes, carrots, peppers, chickpeas, and classic Moroccan-style spices like cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Each spoonful is hearty and high in protein, yet light enough to fit beautifully into a Mediterranean diet and your regular meal prep routine.

Easy Moroccan chicken stew with vegetables and chickpeas in a white bowl

Easy Moroccan Chicken Stew (One-Pot Dinner)

A cozy one-pot Moroccan chicken stew with warm spices, tomatoes, and vegetables, perfect for Mediterranean-style weeknight dinners and high-protein meal prep bowls.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Bone-in or boneless skinless chicken thighs – 1.5 lb about 6 pieces
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Yellow onion diced – 1 medium
  • Garlic cloves minced – 3
  • Fresh ginger minced – 1 tbsp
  • Carrots sliced – 2 medium
  • Red bell pepper sliced – 1 large
  • Ground cumin – 1.5 tsp
  • Paprika – 1 tsp
  • Ground cinnamon – 0.5 tsp
  • Ground turmeric – 0.5 tsp
  • Salt – 1.25 tsp plus more to taste
  • Black pepper – 0.5 tsp
  • Crushed red pepper or chili flakes optional – 0.25 tsp
  • Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
  • Diced tomatoes canned – 1 can (14–15 oz)
  • Low-sodium chicken broth – 2 cups
  • Cooked chickpeas drained and rinsed – 1 cup
  • Pitted green olives – 0.5 cup
  • Fresh lemon juice – 2 tbsp
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley chopped – 0.25 cup

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy pot; Cutting board and knife; Wooden spoon; Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken dry and season all sides with part of the salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then sear chicken on both sides until golden; transfer to a plate.
  3. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and red bell pepper; cook until softened, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  4. Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, remaining salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using; cook until fragrant.
  5. Add tomato paste and cook briefly, then pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine into a rich sauce.
  6. Return chicken and any juices to the pot, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  7. Stir in chickpeas and olives and simmer a few more minutes to warm through and thicken slightly.
  8. Finish with lemon juice and fresh herbs, adjust seasoning, and serve hot over couscous, rice, or quinoa.

Notes

This stew thickens as it rests; add a splash of broth or water when reheating if you prefer a looser sauce. For extra vegetables, stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking until just wilted.
440
22

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate values per serving – 1/4 of recipe)

NutrientAmount
Calories440 kcal
Protein22 g
Total Fat25 g
Carbohydrates39 g
Fiber8 g
Sugars21 g
Sodium309 mg

Tips and Variations for Easy Moroccan Chicken Stew (One-Pot Dinner)

  • For lighter macros, swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts and reduce the oil slightly.
  • Boost fiber and plant protein by adding extra chickpeas or cubes of sweet potato for a thicker, more satisfying bowl.
  • Keep it gluten-free by serving over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice instead of couscous.
  • For freezer-friendly meal prep, cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
  • To make it spicier, add a spoonful of harissa paste or extra chili flakes; for kids or spice-sensitive eaters, keep the base mild and serve chili on the side.

FAQs

1. Can I make Easy Moroccan Chicken Stew in advance?
Yes, this stew is perfect for making ahead. The flavors deepen after a night in the fridge, and it reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave.

2. What should I serve with this Moroccan chicken stew?
Serve it over couscous, rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. Add a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a full Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

3. Can I make this dairy-free or allergen-friendly?
The stew itself is naturally dairy-free. If you like topping it with yogurt, simply use a dairy-free yogurt and double-check broth and couscous labels for any allergens.

4. How do I store leftovers safely?
Cool the stew to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in single portions and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Find more comforting, lighter one-pot dinners and Mediterranean-style meal prep recipes on MealZyt.com, especially in categories like Moroccan One-Pot Dinners, Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep, Gluten-Free Baking, and Easy Global Recipes. For fresh ideas, follow MealZyt on Pinterest and save this Easy Moroccan Chicken Stew (One-Pot Dinner) to boards such as High Protein Meals, Comfort Food Lightened Up, Viral Cottage Cheese Recipes (High Protein), Easy Moroccan Recipes & One Pot Meals, Gluten Free Baking for Beginners, and Freezer Friendly Meals & Prep Ideas.