Mediterranean Chicken with Couscous

Mediterranean Chicken with Couscous is a flavorful and wholesome dish inspired by the sunny coastlines of Greece, Italy, and Morocco. Tender chicken is seasoned with fragrant herbs and simmered with tomatoes, olives, lemon juice, and garlic, creating a bright harmony of savory and tangy flavors.

Paired with fluffy couscous, this meal feels comforting yet refreshing and light. It’s a dish that showcases the simplicity of Mediterranean cuisine—fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and minimal fuss.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with gourmet results. The ingredients are easy to find and wholesome, yet the final dish tastes luxurious and beautifully layered in flavor.

The juicy chicken, briny olives, fresh herbs, and citrus come together effortlessly, requiring little cooking time while providing a deeply satisfying meal.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it captures everything wonderful about Mediterranean cooking: balance, nourishment, vibrant flavor, and versatility.

Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or already love its clean and colorful flavors, this dish delivers.

Recipe Information

• Course: Dinner / Main Course
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approx. 410 per serving

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of ½ lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

For the Couscous:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup boiling water or broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Season chicken with paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden.
3. Add garlic, tomatoes, olives, onion, broth, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Simmer until chicken is cooked and sauce thickens.
5. Prepare couscous by soaking in hot broth and covering with a lid for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff couscous with a fork, drizzle olive oil, and season lightly.
7. Serve chicken over couscous and top with fresh parsley.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat dry and rub with herbs and spices.
2. Sear: In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until browned on both sides.
3. Add Aromatics: Mix in garlic, tomatoes, and onion, allowing them to soften.
4. Simmer: Add olives, broth, and lemon juice, cooking for 10–12 minutes.
5. Prepare Couscous: Place couscous in a bowl, pour boiling water or broth, cover, and rest.
6. Finish Sauce: Allow sauce to thicken slightly and adjust seasoning.
7. Serve: Spoon couscous onto plates, top with chicken, and garnish.

How to Serve

Serve warm in shallow bowls with couscous at the base and chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, crumbled feta, or extra olive oil. Pair with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or warm flatbread.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Allow couscous to steam fully before fluffing.
• Add a splash of white wine while simmering for depth.
• Fresh lemon juice is key for authentic flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas and zucchini.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or harissa paste.
• Gluten-Free: Swap couscous with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
• Creamy Version: Stir in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt before serving.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Freeze chicken separately for up to 2 months. Couscous can freeze but may soften.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Sharp knife
• Heat-proof bowl for couscous
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just reduce simmer time to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can this be meal-prepped?
Absolutely—store in containers and reheat easily.

Q: What vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or artichokes work well.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken with Couscous is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of fresh flavors, nourishing ingredients, and effortless cooking. This dish brings together satisfying textures and bright Mediterranean spices, making every bite wholesome and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight favorite or a standout dinner-party entrée, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and elegance. Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of Mediterranean cuisine in every plate.