Spiced moroccan chicken with lemon couscous

This dish features succulent spiced chicken seasoned with Moroccan spices, complemented by zesty lemon couscous and fresh green beans. It combines bold flavors and vibrant colors, perfect for any dinner occasion.

10 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1.50 cups couscous
1 tsp lemon zest
3 tbsp lemon juice
1.50 cups water
1 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
6 chicken breasts
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground cumin
1.50 cups canned tomatoes
2/3 cup chicken soup
10 cups green beans
Spiced moroccan chicken with lemon couscous

Welcome to this vibrant and flavor-packed recipe for Spiced Moroccan Chicken with Lemon Couscous! This dish combines the aromatic spices of Morocco with refreshing lemony couscous, providing both a visual and taste delight. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings the exotic flavors of North Africa to your kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1.5 cups (360g) of water to a boil.
- Stir in the couscous, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork.
- Add 1 tsp (4.5g) olive oil and 3 tbsp (44g) of lemon juice, then mix to combine. Set aside and keep warm.
2. Prep the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 tsp (2.6g) of cinnamon and 1 tsp (3g) of ground cumin.
- Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the spiced chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, set the chicken breasts aside on a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. Prepare the Tomato and Chicken Broth Mix:
- In the same skillet, add the 1.5 cups (360g) of canned tomatoes and 2/3 cup (160g) of chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add 1 tbsp (20g) honey to the tomato mixture, stirring well to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Green Beans:
- While the tomato mix simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add the green beans and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
- Drain the green beans and set aside.
6. Serve:
- On a large serving platter, spread the lemon-infused couscous as the base.
- Arrange the cooked chicken breasts on top of the couscous.
- Spoon the tomato and broth mixture over the chicken.
- Serve with the green beans on the side.

Congratulations on making Spiced Moroccan Chicken with Lemon Couscous! You've just created a delicious and wholesome meal that is packed with flavors and nutrients. We hope this dish brings a delightful culinary experience to your table. Enjoy your meal, and don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family!

Spiced moroccan chicken with lemon couscous FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the chicken breasts?

Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until they are fully cooked, which usually takes around 10-14 minutes total.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I use other types of chicken instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time as darker cuts may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for couscous in this recipe?

You can substitute couscous with quinoa or bulgur wheat, adjusting the cooking time according to the package instructions of the substitute used.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, not pink.

Tips:

- To enhance the flavor of the couscous, toast it lightly in a dry pan before cooking.

- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the spices and some olive oil for at least an hour before cooking.

- When cooking the chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.

- If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, add more lemon zest or juice to the couscous according to your taste.

- To make the dish more colorful and nutritious, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the green beans.

- Serve the dish with a side of Greek yogurt or a fresh salad to balance the spices and add more texture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 430kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 11g
Sugar 18g
Fat 7g

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