Chicken with couscous 'risotto'

Chicken with couscous 'risotto' features tender chicken breasts cooked with creamy pearl couscous, garlic, and fresh thyme, finished with parmesan and cherry tomatoes for added flavor. This comforting dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

06 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves
1 cup couscous
1/2 cup white wine
2 cherry tomatoes
3 cups chicken gravy
2 tbsp fresh thyme
1 lb chicken breasts
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Chicken with couscous 'risotto' is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy pearl couscous. The addition of fresh thyme, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese elevates the flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Follow these simple steps to create a savory and satisfying dish that your family and friends will love.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the chopped thyme.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once cool, slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.

2. Cook the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add the Couscous:
- Add the pearl couscous to the skillet with the garlic. Stir to coat the couscous in the oil and garlic, toasting it lightly for about 2-3 minutes.

4. Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until the liquid is mostly absorbed.

5. Cook the Couscous:
- Begin adding the chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition of broth to be absorbed before adding the next.
- Continue this process until the couscous is tender and has a risotto-like consistency, which should take about 15-20 minutes.

6. Add Tomatoes and Chicken:
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, the cooked chicken pieces, and the remaining thyme. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and the chicken is heated through.

7. Finish with Parmesan:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it's fully melted and incorporated.

8. Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the chicken with couscous 'risotto' hot, garnished with extra thyme (use fresh parsley if you want) or Parmesan if desired.

Your Chicken with couscous 'risotto' is now ready to serve! The creamy texture of the pearl couscous combined with the juicy, flavorful chicken and the aromatic hint of thyme make this dish a culinary delight. Enjoy it with a glass of white wine and some fresh greens on the side. Bon appétit!

Chicken with couscous 'risotto' FAQ:

How long should I cook the chicken breasts?

Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

What can I use instead of white wine in this recipe?

You can substitute white wine with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with water for a non-alcoholic option. This will maintain the dish's flavor profile without using wine.

How do I store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.

What type of couscous should I use?

Use pearl couscous (also known as Israeli couscous) for a creamy 'risotto' texture. Do not substitute with regular couscous, as the cooking times and water absorption are different.

How do I know when the couscous is done?

The couscous is done when it is tender with a creamy consistency, which should take about 15-20 minutes of cooking with frequent stirring and liquid absorption.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure your chicken breasts are evenly sized for a more consistent cooking result.

- Toast the pearl couscous lightly before adding liquids to enhance its nutty flavor.

- Slowly add the chicken gravy to the couscous, stirring constantly for a creamy, risotto-like texture.

- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.

- Garnish with additional fresh thyme or a sprinkle of black pepper to enhance presentation and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 370kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 2.17g
Sugar 1.07g
Fat 11g

Chicken with couscous 'risotto'