Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner recipe that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This chicken breast and couscous recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is ideal for those seeking quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that don't compromise on taste. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Cooking the Chicken and Couscous:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the couscous. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork.
Combining and Serving:
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh parsley to the couscous.
- Serve the sliced chicken over the couscous mixture.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This is a great way to make even the simplest chicken breast recipe more exciting.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the couscous, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. This is a great way to boost the nutritional value and add more color to your plate.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a little heat.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Parmesan or goat cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without feta cheese):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
This chicken breast and couscous recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and healthy meal that's easy to prepare. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or a healthy lunch. Enjoy this fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals!