Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Moroccan spice blend (or ras el hanout)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Couscous:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix Moroccan spice blend, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Prepare the Couscous:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous with olive oil, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve the Moroccan-spiced chicken on a plate alongside the Mediterranean couscous. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe Showcases Global Flavors:
- Cultural Fusion: Blends Moroccan spices with Mediterranean ingredients for a rich, diverse flavor profile.
- Balanced Meal: Combines protein-rich chicken with nutrient-dense couscous and fresh vegetables.
- Exotic Spice Blend: The Moroccan spice mix imparts a unique taste that transports you to another part of the world.
- Colorful and Fresh: The couscous salad adds vibrant colors and fresh flavors to the dish.
- Easy to Prepare: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
This Moroccan-Spiced Chicken with Mediterranean Couscous offers a delicious exploration of global flavors, combining exotic spices with fresh, Mediterranean ingredients for a satisfying and nutritious meal.