Chicken With Couscous

Chicken with couscous is a quick and satisfying meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy, flavorful couscous. This dish is infused with the warm, earthy flavors of cumin, paprika, and garlic, creating a delightful balance of spice and comfort. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add a burst of color and nutrition, while the couscous, cooked in chicken broth, absorbs all the rich flavors. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, this one-pan dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s both healthy and hearty.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Couscous:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
   • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then evenly coat them with the spice mixture.
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
   • Add the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Couscous:
   • Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Stir in the couscous, then immediately cover the skillet with a lid and remove it from the heat.
   • Let the couscous sit for 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb the broth and become fluffy.
4. Finish the Dish:
   • Fluff the couscous with a fork and mix in the chopped parsley or cilantro and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Slice the cooked chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the couscous and vegetables in the skillet.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the chicken and couscous warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

This Chicken with Couscous dish is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings together wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, perfect for a comforting dinner any night of the week.