Chicken and vegetable couscous is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the vibrancy of North African flavors to your dining table. This delightful dish combines the tender juiciness of chicken with the wholesome goodness of vegetables, all enveloped in the light, fluffy texture of couscous. When I first introduced this recipe to my family, it was met with a chorus of approval. The aromatic spices wafting through the kitchen whetted everyone’s appetite, and by the end of the meal, plates were wiped clean with satisfaction. This dish has since become a staple in our home, frequently requested for family gatherings and casual dinners alike.

Ingredients

To create this delicious chicken and vegetable couscous, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups of couscous
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of coriander
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This should take about 3 minutes. Add the zucchini, red bell pepper, carrot, and chickpeas to the skillet. Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric, ensuring the vegetables are well-coated with the spices.

Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Meanwhile, prepare the couscous according to the package instructions. Once the couscous is ready, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large serving platter. Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture over the couscous, allowing the flavorful broth to soak into the grains.

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The bright citrus adds a refreshing pop that complements the rich, earthy flavors of the dish.

Nutrition Facts

This chicken and vegetable couscous recipe serves approximately 4 people. Each serving contains around 450 calories, making it a nutritious option that provides a balanced array of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Preparation Time

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its efficiency. The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

How to Serve

• Serve the couscous on a large platter for communal dining, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Pair the dish with a crisp, green salad to add a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced flavors.
• Offer a selection of accompaniments, such as harissa or yogurt sauce, for guests to customize their plates.
• For a complete meal, consider serving with warm, crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
• Accompany with a light, fruity white wine or a refreshing mint tea to complement the meal.

Additional Tips

• Spice it up: Adjust the level of spices to suit your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a delightful vegetarian version.
• Advance preparation: Chop the vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process on busy evenings.
• Leftover magic: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Fresh herbs: Use fresh herbs liberally as they enhance the flavor and add a vibrant touch to the presentation.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use whole wheat couscous instead?

A: Absolutely! Whole wheat couscous is a healthy alternative that adds more fiber to the dish.

Q: What other vegetables can I include?

A: Feel free to experiment with vegetables such as eggplant, squash, or green beans. They all add wonderful flavors and textures.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving with freshly made couscous.

Q: How can I make the dish gluten-free?

A: Substitute couscous with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free alternative that complements the dish beautifully.

Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

A: Certainly! This dish holds up well for meal prep. Portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.