Quick Chicken Couscous Bowl

Feeling uninspired? Let this recipe bring some excitement back to your kitchen! This Quick Chicken Couscous is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors and colors that the whole family will love. With tender chicken, fluffy couscous, and your choice of fresh veggies, it’s the perfect dish to shake up your dinner routine. Plus, it comes together in just minutes—ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet simple. Think of it as a delightful escape from the usual pasta or rice dishes, ready to be enjoyed warm or even packed for a picnic!

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What is Quick Chicken Couscous Bowl?

Quick Chicken Couscous is a delightful twist on your usual dinner options that’s perfect for busy nights. Instead of pasta or rice, we’re using fluffy whole wheat couscous, which cooks up in just minutes! This dish features tender chicken—whether fresh or leftover—mixed with colorful veggies like zucchini, green beans, and bell peppers, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing. What sets it apart is how quickly it comes together, with just a little prep work and a simple cooking method. The couscous soaks up all the delicious flavors, and the addition of spices and a sprinkle of feta cheese gives it a special kick! Plus, it’s great warm or cold, so it’s perfect for lunchboxes or picnics. For those looking to elevate their Quick Chicken Couscous, consider incorporating elements from the Texas Roadhouse mushroom chicken recipe to infuse an extra layer of flavor. The savory mushrooms and rich garlic notes can complement the dish beautifully, creating a more robust taste experience. This versatility makes it easy to adapt, ensuring that every meal feels unique and satisfying!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Heat-proof mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Spoon
• Plate
• Foil
• Timer
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups whole wheat couscous
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (I love using extra virgin)
• 1 (8 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast half (can substitute with chicken thighs or leftover chicken)
• 1 pinch kosher salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or more to taste
• ½ cup diced red onion (yellow onion works too)
• 1 cup chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
• ½ cup diced zucchini
• ½ cup diced green beans
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper

 

How to Make Quick Chicken Couscous Bowl?

• Step 1: Place 1 ¼ cups of whole wheat couscous in a heat-proof mixing bowl.

• Step 2: Add ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 1 pinch of cayenne pepper, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir with a spoon until all the couscous is coated with oil. Level off the top and set aside.

• Step 3: Season 1 (8 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast half on both sides with a pinch of kosher salt.

• Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over high heat.

• Step 5: Add the chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken, then add ½ cup of diced red onion and sear for another 2 to 3 minutes.

• Step 6: Remove the chicken to a plate and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut the chicken into ½-inch cubes and return it to the saucepan.

• Step 7: Add 1 cup of chicken broth, ½ cup of diced zucchini, ½ cup of diced green beans, ½ cup of diced red bell pepper, ¼ cup of thinly sliced green onions, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric to the saucepan.

• Step 8: Place the saucepan over high heat. Once it boils, remove from heat and carefully dump the mixture on top of the couscous without stirring.

• Step 9: Immediately wrap the bowl tightly with foil and set a timer for 5 minutes.

• Step 10: When the timer goes off, unwrap the foil, toss in 2 tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley, and stir to combine. This is the last step. Enjoy your meal!

Some Tips!

• When cooking the chicken, make sure it’s nice and seared before adding the veggies and broth; this helps lock in the moisture and flavor.
• Don’t forget to tightly cover the couscous with foil after pouring the broth over it—this is key to making it fluffy and delicious!
• Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or use leftover chicken; it’s super versatile and perfect for cleaning out your fridge!

How to Store Leftovers?

Once everyone’s had their fill, I like to let the leftover chicken couscous cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. If you need it to last longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just be sure to reheat it gently when you’re ready to dig in again!

What to Eat with Quick Chicken Couscous Bowl?

If you’re whipping up my Quick Chicken Couscous, consider pairing it with a refreshing cucumber-tomato salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. The bright flavors and crunch of the salad will perfectly complement the tender chicken and fluffy couscous, making for a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and light! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Conclusion

Whipping up this Quick Chicken Couscous bowl is more than just preparing a meal; it’s an opportunity to bring a burst of color and flavor into your kitchen. With its tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and fluffy couscous, you’ll find that every bite feels like a little celebration. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion—whether shared around the family table or packed for a sunny picnic!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of grain instead of couscous, and how would that affect the cooking process?

Yes, you can use quinoa or bulgur instead of couscous. Adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the grain’s requirements for best results.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance, and if so, what are the best storage and reheating methods?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

Can I use a different cooking method, like grilling or baking, for the chicken instead of searing it?

Yes, you can grill or bake the chicken instead of searing it! Just ensure it’s cooked through and adjust cooking times accordingly. Enjoy!

Can I use a different type of broth, such as vegetable or beef broth, and how would that change the flavor of the dish?

Yes, you can use vegetable or beef broth! Vegetable broth will add a lighter flavor, while beef broth will make it richer and heartier. Enjoy experimenting!

Can I use a different type of cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with a different cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version. Enjoy experimenting!