Craving something different for dinner tonight? Let me introduce you to my favorite weeknight wonder: a vibrant chicken and couscous dish that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast.
As someone who’s been cooking this dish for years, I can promise you one thing – it’s about to become your new go-to meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You know those evenings when you’re standing in front of your open fridge, wondering what to make for dinner? Been there, done that! That’s exactly why I fell in love with this chicken and couscous recipe. It’s the perfect balance of “looks fancy enough for company” and “easy enough for a Tuesday night.”
The best part? While your chicken is cooking, the couscous practically makes itself. I mean, how many dishes can you say that about? Plus, it’s endlessly customizable – something my picky eaters definitely appreciate!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
For the Couscous:
- 2 cups couscous
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (I use carrots, peas, and corn)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- ½ cup toasted almonds (optional)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Trust me, this spice blend is a game-changer!
- Pat your chicken breasts dry (this is crucial for getting that perfect golden crust) and season generously with the spice mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering (but not smoking!), add your chicken.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Making the Perfect Couscous
Here’s where the magic happens! While your chicken is cooking:
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add butter and stir until melted.
- Add couscous, give it a quick stir, cover, and remove from heat.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes – no peeking! This is when the couscous absorbs all that flavorful broth.
- Fluff with a fork and stir in your vegetables, herbs, and toasted almonds if using.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen to Yours
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Let your chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those delicious juices inside where they belong.
- Broth is Better: Using chicken broth instead of water for your couscous adds an extra layer of flavor that makes all the difference.
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs are non-negotiable here. They transform this dish from good to “can I have seconds?”
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for even more flavor
- Add roasted cherry tomatoes and feta cheese for a Greek twist
- Stir in some harissa paste for a spicy North African kick
- Make it vegetarian by using chickpeas instead of chicken
Storage and Leftovers
This dish keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often make extra for lunch the next day – it’s just as delicious cold! Just store the chicken and couscous separately in airtight containers.
Perfect Pairings
Want to make it a complete meal? Here’s what I love serving alongside:
- A simple cucumber and tomato salad
- Grilled Mediterranean vegetables
- A glass of crisp white wine (I’m partial to a Pinot Grigio with this)
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about putting together a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious, isn’t there? This chicken and couscous recipe has saved my weeknight dinner plans more times than I can count, and I hope it does the same for you.
Recipe originally developed in my kitchen after countless Mediterranean-inspired experiments. Perfect for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a delicious, nutritious meal to their repertoire.
