There’s something truly magical about the harmonious blend of spices, dried fruits, and tender chicken that makes Moroccan Chicken and Couscous a dish worth experiencing. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey to vibrant bazaars and family gatherings filled with laughter and love. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend feast, this dish brings people together and celebrates the joy of cooking with heart and soul.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/2 cups water or chicken broth (for couscous)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper and brown them on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add the chicken broth, chickpeas, dried apricots, and raisins to the skillet. Stir to combine, then return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- While the chicken is simmering, prepare the couscous. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in couscous. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- To serve, plate the couscous and top with the Moroccan chicken mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Helpful Tips
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with extra chickpeas or cubes of tofu. You can also add a variety of vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish.
If you’re a beginner, take your time with the spices. Measure them out in advance to ensure you don’t miss any.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Pair this dish with a refreshing Moroccan mint tea or a light, fruity white wine such as a Pinot Grigio.
Conclusion
Nothing warms the heart more than sharing a homemade meal with loved ones. Moroccan Chicken and Couscous is sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to your dining table. Don’t forget to share your creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We’d love to hear your feedback, so please leave a comment on our website.
For more inspiring recipes and updates, subscribe to our newsletter and follow Zynahz on social media. Happy cooking!
