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Chicken with Figs in Ras-el-Hanout and Couscous

This aromatic chicken with figs and ras el hanout is a wonderful example of a high-protein dish that doesn't compromise on flavour. Inspired by the fragrant tagines of North Africa, the chicken is slow-braised until tender in a rich broth of white wine, citrus, and warming spices. The addition of fresh Turkey figs adds a subtle, jammy sweetness that perfectly balances the savoury depth of the ras el hanout spice blend.

Ideal for a weekend dinner or a sophisticated midweek meal, this dish is naturally satisfying and packed with lean protein. Salt-curing the chicken overnight ensures a succulent texture, while the simplified one-pan reduction creates a glossy, restaurant-quality sauce. Serve it over a bed of light, steaming couscous to soak up the delicious juices and garnish with plenty of fresh thyme for a vibrant finish.

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Ingredients for Chicken with Figs in Ras-el-Hanout and Couscous

  • 6 whole chicken leg-thigh pieces (about 2.0kg total)

  • 1 tablespoon salt plus additional for seasoning

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

  • 12 baby carrots, peeled

  • 130g shallots, peeled, halved (about 4 large)

  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled

  • 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme plus additional for garnish

  • 1/2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel

  • 2 tablespoons ras-el-hanout

  • 725ml low-salt chicken broth

  • 180ml dry white wine

  • 14 Brown Turkey figs, halved

  • 2 teaspoons Sherry wine vinegar

  • Couscous (prepared according to package directions)

How to make Chicken with Figs in Ras-el-Hanout and Couscous

Arrange chicken on rimmed baking sheet and sprinkle each side of each piece with 1/4 teaspoons salt. Cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight.

Preheat oven to 177°C. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer chicken to skillet and sear until golden, 5 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to heavy roasting pan, skin side up. Add carrots, shallots, garlic, 1 teaspoon thyme, lemon peel, ras-el-hanout, chicken broth, white wine, and remaining 45ml olive oil to skillet. Bring to boil, whisking up brown bits. Pour mixture over chicken in roasting pan and bring to simmer over medium heat. Cover with foil; place in oven. Braise 1 hour, until tender.

Transfer chicken, carrots, and shallots to baking sheet; discard garlic. Pour pan juices into large saucepan. Spoon off fat from surface. Boil juices until reduced to 425ml , whisking occasionally, about 18 minutes. Add figs and vinegar; cook until figs are just heated through, 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Place cooked couscous on large plate. Top with chicken, vegetables, and figs. Spoon sauce over chicken and figs. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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