Chicken Couscous

Story behind the dish

There’s something soul-warming about dishes that bring together fragrant spices and hearty ingredients, and Chicken Couscous is a shining example. Originating from North Africa, this dish is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner when you want something both satisfying and bursting with vibrancy. As the spices meld with tender chicken and fluffy couscous, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to gather ‘round.

This particular recipe combines sweet dried apricots and aromatic harissa spice, creating a beautiful balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. It’s versatile, colorful, and impressive enough to serve to guests, yet simple enough for a novice cook to master. Let’s dive into creating this delightful dish — a true treasure for your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (about 0.5 fl oz / 15 ml)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 7 oz (200 g) chicken breast, chopped
• Pinch of ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons harissa spice
• 10 dried apricots, chopped
• 7 oz (220 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 7 oz (200 g) couscous
• 7 fl oz (200 ml) chicken stock
• Handful of fresh coriander, chopped

Step-by-step

1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add the chopped chicken to the pan and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the onions turn golden.
3. Grate a pinch of fresh ginger over the chicken and onions, then stir in the harissa spice, coating everything evenly. Cook for 1 minute more to develop the flavors.
4. Toss in the chopped dried apricots, chickpeas, and couscous. Pour the chicken stock over the mixture, give it a gentle stir, then cover the pan with a lid or tightly with foil.
5. Let everything cook for about 5 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed all the stock and become tender.
6. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then sprinkle generously with chopped coriander. Serve hot, with optional extra harissa on the side for those who like an extra kick.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an added layer of flavor, top the dish with toasted almonds or a drizzle of plain yogurt when serving.
• This dish pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for freshness or with roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

Closing thoughts

There’s a certain magic in transforming simple ingredients into a fragrant, colorful dish like Chicken Couscous. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, or for a nourishing meal that feels both exotic and familiar. With its warm spices and hearty components, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the vibrant flavors, and enjoy the delicious journey of creating this comforting classic!