Are you tired of the same old boring chicken recipes? Look no further! We’ve got 18 flavorful and delicious chicken couscous recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From spicy harissa bowls to creamy coconut curries, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these recipes have got you covered. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, from Mediterranean-inspired salads to slow-cooked stews, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make!
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines through these mouthwatering chicken couscous recipes. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s dive in!
Lemon Herb Chicken Couscous with Roasted Vegetables
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and a medley of roasted vegetables, all infused with the zesty warmth of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add couscous, cover, and turn off heat. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary until cooked through.
4. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Fluff couscous with a fork. Serve with roasted vegetables and chicken.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Harissa Chicken and Couscous Bowl
A flavorful and aromatic bowl filled with spicy harissa chicken, fluffy couscous, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions (green onions)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
4. Cook the couscous according to package instructions.
5. Roast the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a separate pan, sauté the red bell pepper and scallions with a pinch of salt.
7. Serve the roasted chicken on top of couscous, garnished with parsley, bell pepper, and scallions. Squeeze lemon juice over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Chicken Couscous with Apricots
This aromatic and flavorful recipe combines the warm spices of Morocco with the sweetness of apricots, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat; season with salt and black pepper.
4. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
5. Roast chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss apricots with a pinch of salt and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until caramelized.
7. Combine cooked couscous and roasted chicken; garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken and Couscous Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of garlic butter chicken with fluffy couscous, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add couscous to the pan, stirring to coat with butter and garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until couscous is tender.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Couscous Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the warmth of Mediterranean spices with the coolness of cucumber and feta cheese, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced chicken, cucumber, feta cheese, and parsley to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Pour cooked couscous over the top and stir until well combined.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Creamy Coconut Chicken Couscous Curry
This rich and creamy curry is a flavorful twist on traditional couscous dishes, infused with the warmth of coconut milk and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chicken, and spices; cook until chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, couscous, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Couscous with Chickpeas and Spinach
This recipe combines the flavors of North Africa with a simple, one-pan approach. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chickpeas, chicken, couscous, and water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender.
7. Stir in the spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Couscous Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of grilled chicken and couscous.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked couscous
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, couscous, mozzarella, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them on a baking sheet.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Couscous
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and juicy chicken with the nutty goodness of couscous. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Cook couscous according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
5. Combine cooked chicken mixture with cooked couscous. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Couscous with Roasted Red Peppers
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the smokiness of paprika, the sweetness of roasted red peppers, and the nutty taste of couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water.
4. Toss red peppers with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
5. Grill or cook chicken until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken over couscous with roasted red peppers and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quick and Easy Chicken Couscous Stir-Fry
This recipe is a fast and flavorful way to get dinner on the table with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight supper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve cooked couscous alongside the chicken and vegetable mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Couscous with Feta and Olives
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the zesty goodness of lemons, garlic, and herbs with the comforting warmth of chicken, couscous, feta cheese, and olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup couscous
– 1 1/4 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 1 1/4 cups of water. Fluff with a fork.
4. Bake the chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Combine cooked couscous, feta cheese, and sliced olives in a serving dish. Top with the baked chicken.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Couscous Stew
A hearty and comforting meal perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken with flavorful couscous and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup uncooked couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, couscous, water, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and cumin.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Add diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Pesto Chicken Couscous with Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and refreshing one-pot dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This recipe combines the creaminess of pesto, the juiciness of chicken, and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes all wrapped up in a delicious couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the couscous and water/chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the pesto sauce to the chicken and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes to the pot with the couscous and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked chicken mixture on top of the couscous and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Chicken Couscous with Raisins and Almonds
This recipe combines the warmth of Indian spices with the comfort of couscous, all wrapped up in a satisfying one-pot meal. With the sweetness of raisins and crunch of almonds, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the couscous, chicken broth, raisins, and almonds. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Couscous Salad
This sweet and tangy salad combines the flavors of caramelized chicken, creamy balsamic glaze, and nutty couscous with fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Grill or bake chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. Brush with the balsamic glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Toss cooked couscous with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional).
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and serve over couscous salad.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Chicken Couscous with Zucchini and Mint
This refreshing summer dish combines the flavors of herby chicken, tender zucchini, and cooling mint, all wrapped up in a light and fluffy couscous. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups couscous
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Spread zucchini slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook couscous according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through.
6. Stir in mint leaves and lemon juice. Serve chicken on top of couscous with roasted zucchini.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Chicken Couscous with Pineapple
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the spiciness of harissa with the sweetness of pineapple. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups couscous
– 3 cups water
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp harissa paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the couscous according to package instructions using 3 cups of boiling water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the harissa paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the diced pineapple to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the pineapple and harissa mixture.
6. Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over the cooked couscous. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 18 flavorful chicken couscous recipes! From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for every occasion. Try pairing lemony herbs with roasted vegetables, or adding a kick with spicy harissa. Enjoy Moroccan spices and apricots, garlic butter and skillet-cooked goodness, or go Mediterranean with feta and olives. There are also creamy curries, one-pan wonders, grilled stuffed peppers, and more! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes have got you covered.
