How to make Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe Apricot Preserves

If there’s one dish that transports me straight back to my grandmother’s kitchen in Rabat, it’s this Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe Apricot Preserves. The aroma of cinnamon, cumin, and saffron simmering in a hearty chicken broth still makes me nostalgic every time I cook it. It’s not just food, it’s a celebration of culture, comfort, and community.

This recipe is the soul of Moroccan Fridays and special occasions. The twist? A generous spoon of sweet apricot preserves that adds depth, silkiness, and a burst of fruity warmth. This version blends savory spices with natural sweetness, delivering layers of flavor in every forkful. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner centerpiece or preparing it ahead for a satisfying weeknight meal, it always delivers.

Think of it as comfort food meets elegance, with tender chicken, fluffy steamed couscous, colorful veggies, and a glossy, golden broth,anchored by the hidden gem of this dish: apricot preserves.

Why This Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe with Apricot Preserves Just Works

There are many Moroccan couscous recipes out there, but this one hits differently. The secret lies in balance, every element has a role, from the aromatic spices to the choice of vegetables, and of course, the sweet apricot preserves.

Unlike typical savory couscous dishes, this recipe includes a spoonful of preserves that melts beautifully into the sauce, offering just enough sweetness to make the spices sing. I often use high-quality organic apricot preserves, something thick, fruity, and not overly sugary. You can find excellent ones at Mediterranean specialty stores or even on Thrive Market.

Another key? The double steaming of the couscous, a traditional Moroccan technique that ensures each grain stays separate and pillowy-soft. I promise, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to the boxed stuff.

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Tips for a Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe

• Low and Slow Cooking: Simmer for rich flavor, allowing spices to meld.
• Layer Spices: Moroccan cuisine relies on aromatic spices, don’t skimp on them!
• Use the Right Cut of Chicken: For the juiciest and most flavorful couscous, I recommend using bone-in chicken pieces, like thighs or drumsticks. The bone helps release more flavor into the broth, creating a rich base that complements the couscous. If you’re short on time, boneless chicken can work too, but it won’t provide quite the same depth.
• Customize Vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables to complement the chicken and couscous.
• Don’t Skip the Garnish: Once your couscous is ready, finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley and a handful of toasted almonds or chickpeas. These simple garnishes add texture and freshness that brighten the overall flavor.

Recipe Variants

1. Lamb and Apricot Couscous

For a richer, more indulgent version of this dish, swap the chicken for lamb. Lamb is a popular meat in Moroccan cuisine and pairs beautifully with the apricot preserves. The rich, fatty lamb adds a depth of flavor that marries perfectly with the subtle sweetness of the apricot. You can use lamb shanks or stew cuts, simmering them in the broth until they are meltingly tender. This version is great for special occasions or when you’re looking to impress guests.

2. Vegetarian Couscous with Apricot Preserves

If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the meat with chickpeas or another protein-packed legume like lentils. For extra depth of flavor, roast a mix of root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips, and toss them into the couscous after cooking. The apricot preserves will still lend that sweetness, balancing the earthy vegetables. Add a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or almonds for a crunchy texture contrast.

3. Chicken Couscous with Dried Figs and Apricot Preserves

For an even more decadent take on this recipe, you can add dried figs in addition to the apricot preserves. Figs offer a richer, almost caramel-like sweetness that deepens the overall flavor profile. This combination is a nod to the more traditional Moroccan dishes that incorporate both apricots and figs as complementary ingredients. The figs soften in the broth, adding a luxurious texture while enhancing the natural sweetness of the apricot preserves.

4. Spicy Harissa Chicken Couscous

If you love a bit of heat in your meals, this variant is for you. Harissa, a North African chili paste made with roasted peppers, garlic, and various spices, adds a fiery kick to the dish. You can stir a spoonful of harissa into the broth along with the apricot preserves, giving the couscous a bold, spicy-sweet flavor. The heat from the harissa will balance the sweetness of the apricot, creating a beautiful fusion of flavors. This variant is perfect for those who like their meals with a bit more heat!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe Apricot Preserves is a heartwarming dish that combines bold spices, tender chicken, and the sweet richness of apricot preserves. Whether you’re gathering with family, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a delicious, comforting meal, this recipe delivers all the flavors that make Moroccan cuisine so special. It’s versatile, easy to adapt, and offers a delicious balance of savory and sweet.

I encourage you to give it a try, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the variations I’ve shared. The beauty of Moroccan couscous is that you can make it your own. Plus, the apricot preserves add a unique twist that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

For another delicious dish, try our Chicken Mushroom Potatoes with Rosemary Crock Pot Recipe for an easy, comforting meal that’s full of earthy flavors.