This one-pan Moroccan chicken and couscous recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and spices. A hearty and filling meal, it brings the exotic taste of Morocco straight to your kitchen. The combination of chicken, couscous, vegetables, and an array of spices, creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. The one-pan style of cooking makes it an easy choice for a busy weeknight dinner.
Some ingredients such as couscous, apricots, and spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric may not be regularly available in your pantry. If you plan on cooking this dish, you might need to visit your local supermarket or an ethnic grocery store. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are also essential to infuse this dish with its signature Moroccan aroma and flavor.
Ingredients for One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
Chicken breasts: Lean and protein-rich, the chicken is the star of our one-pan dish.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a gentle, savory flavor to the dish.
Cumin: This spice adds a warm and earthy flavor.
Coriander: Ground coriander imparts a mild, sweet and floral taste.
Cinnamon: Adds a sweet-spicy flavor to the mix.
Bell pepper: Provides a sweet, slightly bitter flavor and crunchy texture.
Red onion: Gives a strong, spicy, and sweet flavor.
Carrots: Adds a sweet flavor and vibrant color.
Garlic: A key ingredient that adds a spicy, robust flavor.
Turmeric: Gives the dish a golden color and a mild, earthy flavor.
Chicken broth: Used as the cooking liquid, adds additional flavor.
Apricots: Adds a sweet-tart flavor.
Couscous: A type of pasta, it absorbs the flavors of the dish well.
Lemon juice: Freshens up the dish with its bright acidity.
Almonds: Adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh herb that gives a bright, citrusy flavor.
Mint: Gives a refreshing contrast to the spices.
One reader, Diena Fusco says:
This one-pan Moroccan chicken and couscous recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and aromatic, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of spices and apricots is simply divine. Plus, the one-pan aspect makes for minimal cleanup. It's a definite winner in my book!
Mastering the Techniques for One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
How to sauté the vegetables: Sauté the bell pepper and onion for 5 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
How to cook the couscous: After adding the couscous to the skillet, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 to 6 minutes until it becomes tender.
How to wrap the chicken: After cooking the chicken, transfer it to a sheet of foil and wrap it to keep it warm.
How to adjust the consistency: If desired, add a little more broth to the dish to adjust the consistency before serving.
How To Make One Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
Cook an appetizing dinner with this Moroccan chicken spiced with cumin, coriander, and cinnamon then tossed with couscous, carrots, and apricots.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbchicken breasts,boneless, skinless, diced into ¾-inch pieces
- 3tbspolive oil,divided
- 1tspground cumin,divided
- ½tspground coriander,divided
- ½tspground cinnamon,divided
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1½cupsred bell pepper,(1 large), cored and chopped
- ¾cupred onion,chopped
- 1½cupsmatchstick carrots
- 1tbspgarlic,(3 cloves), minced
- ¼tspturmeric
- 1½cupslow-sodium chicken broth
- ⅓cupapricots,or golden raisins, chopped dried
- 1cupdry couscous
- 2tbspfresh lemon juice
- ½cupFisher sliced almonds
- 2tbspfresh cilantro,chopped
- 2¼tbspfresh mint,chopped
Instructions
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick 12-inch saute pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken to pan season with salt and pepper, ½ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon coriander, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for about 7 minutes turning occasionally until cooked through.
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Transfer chicken to a sheet of foil and wrap to keep warm. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet.
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Add in bell pepper and onion and saute for 5 minutes.
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Add in carrots, garlic, remaining ½ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon coriander, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and turmeric. Saute for 1 minute.
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Add in chicken broth and apricots, season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until it boils lightly in the center.
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Stir in couscous then remove from heat and let rest for 5 to 6 minutes until tender.
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Stir in chicken and any accumulated juices, lemon juice, almonds, cilantro, and mint. Add in little more broth if desired. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 633.01kcal
- Fat: 30.98g
- Saturated Fat: 5.40g
- Trans Fat: 0.12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 17.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.88g
- Carbohydrates: 53.50g
- Fiber: 8.61g
- Sugar: 8.13g
- Protein: 36.80g
- Cholesterol: 72.57mg
- Sodium: 1012.07mg
- Calcium: 129.61mg
- Potassium: 940.03mg
- Iron: 3.79mg
- Vitamin A: 518.28µg
- Vitamin C: 81.84mg
A Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
When cooking the chicken, ensure that it is fully cooked through to avoid any foodborne illnesses. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, when adding the couscous, make sure to remove the pan from the heat. Couscous cooks quickly with just the steam from the hot liquid and leaving it on the heat can cause it to become mushy. Lastly, when adding the fresh herbs like cilantro and mint, add them right before serving to maintain their fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavors and save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonders: Look for shortcuts like using pre-cut vegetables and boneless, skinless chicken breasts to minimize prep time and cleanup.
Efficient multitasking: While the chicken is cooking, chop the vegetables to maximize your time in the kitchen.
Smart substitutions: Consider using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
Quick couscous: Opt for instant couscous to reduce the cooking time and simplify the process.
Substitute Ingredients For One Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Recipe
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They have a similar texture and can be cooked in the same way.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a similar warm and earthy flavor to the dish.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin can replace coriander, adding a slightly different but complementary flavor to the dish.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, offering a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can replace red onions, offering a milder flavor and similar texture when cooked.
matchstick carrots - Substitute with sliced carrots: Sliced carrots can be used as a substitute for matchstick carrots, providing the same sweet and crunchy texture to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient and concentrated garlic flavor to the dish.
turmeric - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for turmeric, adding a warm and slightly smoky flavor to the dish.
low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a similar savory flavor to the dish.
apricots - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used as a substitute for apricots, offering a tart and sweet flavor to the dish.
couscous - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a substitute for couscous, providing a nutty flavor and a boost of protein to the dish.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for fresh lemon juice, providing a tangy acidity to the dish.
sliced almonds - Substitute with chopped walnuts: Chopped walnuts can be used as a substitute for sliced almonds, offering a similar nutty crunch to the dish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a bright and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
fresh mint - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for mint, offering a similar fresh and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Presenting a Delightful One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Dish
Elevate the plating: Arrange the Moroccan chicken and couscous in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Integrate colorful elements such as the red bell peppers, apricots, and fresh herbs to add visual interest and vibrancy to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out and create a visually striking presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped cilantro and mint to add a pop of green and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
Consider plate geometry: Pay attention to the shape and size of the plate to ensure that the dish is presented in a balanced and visually pleasing manner.
Incorporate texture: Add a final touch by sprinkling a few sliced almonds over the dish to introduce a delightful crunch and textural contrast.
Emphasize the main protein: Place the succulent Moroccan chicken as the focal point of the dish, drawing attention to its flavorful and aromatic qualities.
Create a harmonious composition: Arrange the components in a way that creates a harmonious balance and visually appealing composition on the plate.
Highlight the couscous: Mold the couscous into a neat shape using a ring mold to create an elegant and refined presentation.
Add a touch of elegance: Consider using edible flowers or microgreens to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
- Non-stick saute pan or deep skillet: A non-stick pan or skillet is essential for cooking the chicken and vegetables without them sticking to the surface.
- Sheet of foil: Used to wrap the cooked chicken to keep it warm while preparing the rest of the dish.
- 12-inch saute pan or deep skillet: A larger pan or skillet is needed to accommodate all the ingredients and ensure even cooking.
- Mixing spoon: Used for stirring and combining the ingredients in the pan.
- Cutting board: Used for chopping and preparing the vegetables and chicken.
- Knife: Essential for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure the spices and seasonings for the dish.
- Measuring cups: Essential for measuring the chicken broth, couscous, and other liquid ingredients.
- Grater: Used for grating garlic or other ingredients if needed.
- Foil: Used to wrap the cooked chicken to keep it warm while preparing the rest of the dish.
Storing and Freezing One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous for Later
Let the one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the couscous from becoming soggy and the flavors from mixing together.
Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The chicken and couscous will absorb the flavors of the spices and vegetables as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
To reheat, simply microwave the desired portion for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the leftovers, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze the one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Keep in mind that the texture of the couscous may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious. If the couscous seems a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to moisten it up.
How To Reheat Leftover One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
Stovetop method: place the leftover one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the couscous and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until the dish is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This method allows you to quickly reheat the dish while maintaining its texture and flavor.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the dish is heated through. This method is quick and convenient, but be careful not to overheat the dish, as it may cause the couscous to become mushy.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. This method helps to evenly reheat the dish and maintain its texture, but it takes longer than the stovetop or microwave methods.
Steamer method: place the leftover one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous in a heat-safe dish that fits inside your steamer basket. Fill the bottom of the steamer with water and bring it to a boil. Place the dish with the leftovers in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. This method helps to gently reheat the dish while preserving its moisture and flavor.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the one-pan moroccan chicken and couscous well to ensure even heating throughout. If the dish seems dry, add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help moisten it. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage. Garnish with fresh cilantro and mint before serving to brighten up the dish.
A Fascinating Fact About One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
The Moroccan chicken and couscous recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining the warmth of cinnamon and coriander with the sweetness of apricots. This dish is a perfect representation of the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Morocco, where the use of spices and dried fruits is prevalent in many traditional dishes.
Is Making One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Cost-Effective?
The Moroccan chicken and couscous recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and couscous offers a balanced and nutritious meal. The cost for a household of four is approximately $20, making it a reasonable option. The versatility of the ingredients allows for variations based on seasonal produce, making it adaptable to different budgets. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its nutritional value, flavor, and affordability.
Is This Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Recipe Healthy?
The one-pan Moroccan chicken and couscous recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. The use of lean chicken breast provides a low-fat source of protein, while the variety of vegetables, including bell peppers, onions, and carrots, offers essential vitamins and minerals. The incorporation of spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric not only adds flavor but also provides potential health benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the use of whole wheat couscous would further enhance the nutritional value by providing more fiber compared to regular couscous.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content
- Increase the proportion of vegetables to couscous and chicken, ensuring a higher intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to help control sodium levels
- Include additional nutrient-dense vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost the vitamin and mineral content
- Replace the dried apricots with fresh or dried fruits lower in sugar, such as raisins or dried cranberries
- Use whole wheat couscous instead of regular couscous to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
- Garnish with a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt for added protein and a creamy texture without significantly increasing the calorie count
The Editor's Take on This Delightful Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Recipe
The one-pan Moroccan chicken and couscous recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and vibrant flavors. The combination of tender chicken, sweet apricots, and nutty couscous creates a harmonious dish. The use of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon adds depth to the dish, while the addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice provides a refreshing finish. The recipe's simplicity and one-pan preparation make it an excellent choice for a flavorful and hassle-free meal.
Enhance Your One Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous
Why trust this One Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of Moroccan flavors, promising a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. The aromatic blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon infuses the dish with rich, exotic notes. The use of apricots adds a touch of natural sweetness, balancing the savory elements. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh lemon juice and olive oil ensures bright, zesty flavors and a healthy touch. With the careful combination of these ingredients, this recipe guarantees a harmonious and satisfying meal that you can trust to impress and delight.
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