Mediterranean Chicken Couscous

Mediterranean Chicken Couscous is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines tender, spiced chicken with fluffy couscous and a variety of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. This dish is light yet satisfying, packed with Mediterranean flavors such as lemon, garlic, and herbs. The couscous absorbs all the delicious juices from the chicken and spices, creating a dish that’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick and wholesome weeknight meal. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the couscous:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the toppings:

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
2. Cook the couscous: Bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the couscous, olive oil, and salt, then remove from heat. Cover the saucepan and let the couscous sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and browned. Remove from the heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. Assemble the dish: In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous with the cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Serve the couscous topped with the sliced chicken and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

This Mediterranean Chicken Couscous is a fresh and flavorful meal, perfect for enjoying the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean in a healthy, satisfying dish!