Quick Mediterranean Chicken Couscous

Mediterranean Chicken Couscous is a satisfying and tasty dish, perfect for all seasons. It is a richer alternative to the vegetable version, ideal for surprising your guests with a unique dish with an exotic touch, to be enjoyed both warm and cold. Convenient to prepare even in advance, it can be distributed in elegant glasses and served as finger food at a buffet or birthday party.

The result is a fragrant and delicious dish, which you can vary to your liking and depending on the season. For a more intense flavor, you can rehydrate the cereal in vegetable or meat broth, and dissolve a sachet of saffron in it , for an even more fragrant and colorful note.

What is Mediterranean Chicken Couscous?

Couscous, a staple of North African cuisine, has a rich history that dates back centuries, originating with the Berbers in regions like Morocco and Algeria. Traditionally made from semolina wheat, couscous was a versatile dish that spread throughout the Mediterranean.

Chicken couscous evolved as a popular variation, combining tender, flavorful chicken with the light texture of couscous, creating a dish that balances protein with grains. As trade routes and cultural exchanges brought spices, herbs, and other ingredients across the Mediterranean, Mediterranean chicken couscous emerged as a fusion dish, integrating fresh vegetables, herbs, and citrus to create a vibrant, healthful version of the traditional meal.

Pro Tips for The Best Mediterranean Chicken Couscous

• Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor, making the dish more aromatic and vibrant.
• After cooking, use a fork to fluff the couscous for a light, airy texture.
• Let the cooked chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice for the perfect balance.
• Keep vegetables slightly crisp to add texture to the dish.
• Cooking couscous in chicken broth adds depth of flavor.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, along with a sprinkle of toasted nuts, will elevate the presentation and taste.

What Other Vegetables Can I Use?

All those in season will be fine: eggplants, green beans, peas, cherry tomatoes, sautéed friggitelli, blanched snow peas… the important thing is that they are very fresh and, if possible, organic.

Can I Add Other Spices?

We left the couscous natural but you can flavor it with paprika, curry, cumin, garam masala, but also thyme, rosemary, basil, mint and your favorite spices and aromatic herbs.

What Other Meat Can I Use Instead of Chicken?

You can customize the recipe as you like: in addition to using leftover boiled and shredded chicken, you can opt for turkey breast, but also for a jar of already boiled chickpeas or for a block of tofu, for a vegan version.

Should I Serve This Warm or Cold?

Couscous can be served both warm or cold, depending on your preference and the dish. For chicken couscous, it's typically served warm to enjoy the flavors of the spices, chicken, and vegetables at their peak. However, it can also be enjoyed cold, especially in salads or as a refreshing dish in warmer weather.

Is Couscous Healthy?

Yes, couscous is considered a healthy option. It's low in fat, a good source of carbohydrates, and provides some protein and fiber. Whole wheat couscous is even healthier, offering more fiber and nutrients. Paired with lean proteins like chicken and plenty of vegetables, it makes for a balanced and nutritious meal.

What Can I Serve With Mediterranean Chicken Couscous?

Chicken couscous pairs well with a variety of sides. You can serve it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a yogurt-based sauce like tzatziki for added creaminess. A side of hummus or baba ganoush with warm pita bread complements the Mediterranean flavors. You could also offer pickled vegetables or olives for a tangy contrast.

Can I Make This Couscous Ahead of Time?

Yes, chicken couscous can be made ahead of time! Both the couscous and the chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat the dish gently before serving to preserve the flavors and texture. If serving cold, it's perfect for a make-ahead meal, like a couscous salad.

Does This Couscous Freeze Well?

Yes, you can freeze chicken couscous! Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. However, couscous may slightly lose its fluffy texture after freezing, so fluff it with a fork after reheating.

More Salads Recipes You Need to Try!

Homemade Caesar Salad

Mediterranean Tuna Couscous Salad

Chicken Corn Salad

Moroccan Lentil Salad

Butternut Squash Salad

How to Store Mediterranean Chicken Couscous

Chicken couscous can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly closed in an airtight container, for up to 1 day.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Couscous

Wash the vegetables, then clean the onion and divide it in half, peel the carrots and cut them into sticks together with the zucchini, and remove the seeds and internal filaments from the pepper.

Cut all the vegetables into small pieces.

Pour a generous drizzle of oil into a large pan, then add all the vegetables.

Cook the vegetables over high heat, stirring occasionally, until cooked but still film. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat a drizzle of oil in another pan, add the chicken breast, cut into 2 cm cubes, and sauté over a high heat for a few minutes, until they are lightly browned.

Combine the chicken cubes with the vegetable dressing, sauté everything for a few minutes and set aside.

Prepare the couscous following the instructions on the package: pour it all at once into a saucepan of very hot, lightly salted water.

Cover with the lid and let it rest for 10 minutes, so that the couscous can rehydrate.

After this time, remove the lid, add a drizzle of oil and separate the couscous with a fork.

Transfer the couscous to the chicken and vegetable dressing.

Mix everything well, placing the dish on the heat for a few more minutes.

Divide into individual plates and serve the chicken couscous. Enjoy!