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Lemony Mediterranean Chicken and Couscous

Savory Lemony Mediterranean Chicken and Couscous Delight

Experience the vibrant flavors of Lemony Mediterranean Chicken and Couscous, a one-pan meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 thighs Chicken Can substitute with chicken breasts.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use any neutral oil.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Try smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Coriander can work as an alternative.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder 1 clove of fresh garlic equals 1/8 tsp garlic powder.
  • Salt and Pepper Adjust to your taste preference.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Yellow Onion Can substitute with shallots or green onions.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Substitute with any bell pepper or use green for sharper taste.
For the Base
  • 1 cup Couscous Quinoa or orzo can be gluten-free alternatives.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth works for a lighter option.
For the Garnish
  • cup Pistachios Can use almonds or walnuts.
  • ¼ cup Parsley Cilantro can be a refreshing substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Can substitute lime juice.
For the Dressing
  • ¼ cup Tahini Sunflower seed butter serves as a nut-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup for a vegan option.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by dicing one yellow onion and one red bell pepper into small pieces to enhance their sweetness during cooking. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to create a spice blend.
  3. Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the spice blend. Ensure each piece is well coated.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
  5. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for about 6 minutes until softened.
  6. Stir in 1 cup of couscous and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly fragrant.
  7. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bring to a boil, then nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
  8. While the chicken and couscous are cooking, chop ⅓ cup of pistachios and mix with ¼ cup of parsley, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and 1 clove of minced garlic for the garnish.
  9. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of honey until smooth.
  10. Once cooked, drizzle tahini sauce over the chicken and couscous, and top with the pistachio garnish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain moisture, reheat with a splash of broth.

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