Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This Chicken Couscous recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's packed with flavor, protein, and wholesome ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for the whole family. This recipe is a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and delicious, providing a delicious alternative to takeout or processed meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or raisins)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Couscous: Stir in the couscous and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender.
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Combine & Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the dried cranberries (or raisins), parsley, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fluff the couscous with a fork and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Chicken Couscous:
- Chicken Choice: Feel free to use other cuts of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites!
- Spice it Up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest adds a bright, fresh note to the dish.
- Herb Alternatives: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or dill.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-12g
This easy chicken couscous recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy lunch, or even meal prep. The versatility of this dish allows for endless customization, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and vibrant vegetables provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy!