Couscous with chicken is a delightful dish that combines earthy flavors and vibrant colors, making it perfect for any meal. To create this, you’ll need whole wheat couscous, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, olive oil, chicken breast, red onion, chicken broth, zucchini, green beans, red bell pepper, green onions, smoked paprika, turmeric, parsley, feta cheese, and chili flakes.
Cooking this dish is not only simple but also offers a satisfying way to enjoy a healthy, balanced meal. The fluffy couscous paired with tender chicken and fresh vegetables creates a comforting and nourishing experience.
Couscous Overview
Couscous is a traditional North African dish made from durum wheat semolina. It has a unique texture and is known for its ability to absorb flavors from accompanying ingredients.
I like couscous for its versatility. It can serve as a base for various dishes, from veggies and sauces to meats and seafood.
Couscous comes in different types, including:
- Moroccan couscous: The smallest grain, quick to cook.
- Israeli couscous: Larger, with a chewy texture.
- Lebanese couscous: Even larger, also known as moghrabieh.
Preparing couscous is simple. Just steam it or soak it in boiling water, and it’s ready in minutes. I often add olive oil, herbs, or spices to enhance its flavor.
Couscous pairs well with myriad ingredients, making it perfect for both casual meals and fancy dinners. It’s a flexible addition to any kitchen and suits a variety of culinary styles.
Ingredients:
For the couscous:
- 1 ¼ cups of whole wheat couscous
- ½ tsp of kosher salt
- ¼ tsp of ground black pepper
- 1 pinch of cayenne pepper
- 3 tbsp of olive oil
For the chicken:
- 1 skinless and boneless chicken breast half
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp of olive oil (more if needed)
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- ½ cup of diced green beans
- ½ cup of diced red onion
- ½ cup of diced zucchini
- ½ cup of diced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup of thinly sliced green onions
- ½ tsp of smoked paprika
- ½ tsp of ground turmeric
- 2 tbsp of chopped flat-leaf parsley, or to taste
- 2 tbsp of crumbled feta cheese, or to taste
- 1 pinch of chili flakes
How To Make Couscous with Chicken?
- To begin, place the couscous in a heat-proof bowl. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, and olive oil, then stir until the couscous is evenly coated with oil.
- For the chicken, season both sides with salt. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over high heat and sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Add onions and sauté alongside the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Once done, transfer it to a plate to cool slightly. Cut the chicken into 1/2-inch cubes and return it to the saucepan. Add chicken broth, green beans, zucchini, green onions, bell pepper, paprika, and turmeric. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Pour the boiling mixture over the couscous without stirring. Cover the bowl tightly with foil and allow it to steam for 5 minutes.
- After the time has passed, remove the foil, add parsley, and stir to combine. Adjust salt if necessary.
- To serve, transfer the couscous to a plate. Garnish with feta cheese, chili flakes, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Typical Nutritional Breakdown (for the whole dish):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 966 |
| Protein | 46g |
| Carbohydrates | 125g |
| Dietary Fiber | 21g |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Serving Suggestions
Plating Techniques
For an appealing presentation, I often arrange the couscous in a generous mound on the plate. Placing the chicken on top allows the juices to soak into the grains. I enjoy adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Drizzling a light sauce or broth over the dish enhances both the flavor and appearance. Using a ring mold can create elegant portions if I’m hosting a dinner party. A few slices of lemon or lime on the side brighten the plate and add a fresh aroma.
Side Dishes
I like to complement this dish by serving simple yet flavorful side dishes. A vibrant salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion pairs nicely. Tossing it with a light vinaigrette adds a zesty contrast to the savory chicken and couscous.
For a heartier option, roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini provide color and nutrition. Before roasting, I often season them with olive oil, salt, and herbs. Lastly, a light yogurt sauce can add creaminess and tang, making it a delightful addition to the meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
- Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Duration: Consuming refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days is best.
Freezing
- Prep: If I plan to freeze, I portion out the dish into smaller servings.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags to minimize freezer burn.
- Duration: Frozen couscous with chicken can last up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil or broth, then stir in the couscous and chicken. Warm until heated through.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed.
Tips For a Perfect Couscous with Chicken Dish
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables make a significant difference. I prefer using organic options whenever possible.
- Cook Chicken Properly: I sauté the chicken until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and moisture, keeping the meat juicy.
- Use Flavorful Broth: I use chicken broth instead of plain water to hydrate the couscous. This adds depth to the dish.
- Season Generously: I season the chicken and couscous with spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Adding herbs like parsley or cilantro enhances the flavor further.
- Let the Couscous Steam: I cover the couscous after adding broth, and let it steam for about 5 minutes. This ensures it absorbs all the flavors.
- Fluff Before Serving: I use a fork to fluff the couscous gently before serving. This gives the dish a light texture.
- Serve with Fresh Vegetables: Incorporating colorful vegetables adds nutrients and enhances the visual appeal.
Conclusion
Couscous with chicken brings together simple ingredients for a delicious meal. This dish showcases the harmony of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
To serve, I often garnish with fresh herbs, providing a pop of color and flavor. This makes every dish visually appealing and enticing.
Having couscous with chicken satisfies hunger and creates a comforting experience. I find myself coming back to this dish time and again.
Just one more thing – a crunchy beet and apple salad pairs well with this couscous dish.
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