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DINNER

Tunisian Chicken and Chickpea Stew with Apricots and Almonds

This hearty Tunisian stew combines tender chicken, protein-rich chickpeas, and the sweet-tart flavor of apricots, all balanced with crunchy almonds. It's a comforting and aromatic dish perfect for a family dinner.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

02

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

03

Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the browned chicken to the pot.

04

Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas and halved dried apricots. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to combine.

05

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

06

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish generously with toasted sliced almonds before serving.

About This Recipe

This hearty Tunisian stew combines tender chicken, protein-rich chickpeas, and the sweet-tart flavor of apricots, all balanced with crunchy almonds. It's a comforting and aromatic dish perfect for a family dinner.
Tunisian Chicken and Chickpea Stew with Apricots and Almonds
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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♨

Chef's Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of saffron threads soaked in a tablespoon of warm water along with the chicken broth. If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
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Easy Substitutions

Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out. Sweet potatoes or carrots can be added for extra vegetables. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding extra chickpeas or lentils for protein.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tunisian chicken and chickpea stew over a bed of fluffy couscous to soak up all the delicious broth. It also pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread for dipping. For a lighter meal, serve it with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add a refreshing finish.

Common Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken: Chicken thighs are forgiving, but ensure they remain tender by not simmering for too long after they are cooked through. Not toasting the almonds: Toasted almonds add a crucial nutty flavor and crunch; raw almonds will lack this depth. Skipping the browning step: Browning the chicken and sautéing the aromatics builds a foundational layer of flavor for the stew. Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste the stew before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Brown the chicken and sauté the onion and garlic on the stovetop first. Then combine all ingredients (except toasted almonds) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Garnish with almonds before serving.

What kind of apricots should I use?

Use dried apricots, preferably unsulphured for a more natural flavor and color. Halve them before adding to the stew.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini would be excellent additions. Add them with the onion to cook until slightly softened before adding the liquids.
MORE TO KNOW
Tunisian cuisine is known for its vibrant spices and a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors, often incorporating dried fruits and nuts into savory dishes. This stew is a perfect example, showcasing the rich aroma of spices like cumin and coriander, brightened by the sweetness of apricots and the crunch of almonds. The slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying meal.
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