Step 1

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a clean plate.

Step 2

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and onion to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping up any browned bits, until the onion is soft and lightly browned, about 4 minutes. Stir in lemon zest, garlic, ginger, tomato paste and ras el hanout. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in broth, chickpeas, apricots, olives, 1/4 cup almonds and the chicken. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 8 minutes.

Step 3

Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Serve topped with the remaining 1/4 cup almonds and cilantro, if desired.