Couscous and chicken is an often overlooked duo. Couscous is made from small granules of semolina (ground durum wheat) and is quick and easy to prepare by simply adding boiling water. It makes an excellent accompaniment to any Middle Eastern or North African inspired dish. Chicken is a versatile meat that pairs well with almost any flavour. This article will showcase how to combine these two ingredients to create some mouth-watering meals.
You can use any cut of chicken for these recipes, but thighs or breasts work best. Thighs are more forgiving if overcooked, while breasts are leaner and cook more quickly. If using breasts, it’s important to cook them over medium heat so that they don’t dry out. You can also use precooked chicken to save time, but be sure to reheat it before serving.
Flavourful Options
Couscous and chicken is a blank canvas for flavours, so feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings. Some popular options include:
- Ras el hanout: A Moroccan spice blend with a warm, earthy flavour.
- Cumin: A spice with a slightly smoky, nutty flavour.
- Paprika: A spice with a slightly sweet, smoky flavour.
- Harissa: A Tunisian chilli paste with a spicy, smoky flavour.
- Za’atar: A Middle Eastern spice blend with a nutty, earthy flavour.
You can also add other ingredients to your couscous and chicken to bulk it up and make it more substantial. Some popular options include:
- Vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, peppers, and zucchini.
- Fruits such as raisins, apricots, and dates.
- Nuts and seeds such as almonds, pistachios, and pine nuts.
- Beans and lentils such as chickpeas, black beans, and lentils.
Cooking Methods
There are two main ways to cook couscous and chicken: steaming and pilaf. Steamed couscous is cooked by placing it in a steamer basket over boiling water. This method is quick and easy, but it doesn’t produce as much flavour as the pilaf method.
Pilaf couscous is cooked by sautéing it in a pan with oil or butter before adding boiling water. This method produces more flavourful couscous, but it takes a bit longer to cook.
Conclusion
Couscous and chicken is a versatile and delicious combination that can be enjoyed in many different ways. By experimenting with different spices, seasonings, and cooking methods, you can create a dish that is tailored to your taste buds. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give couscous and chicken a try.
With so many flavourful options and cooking methods to choose from, you’re sure to find a couscous and chicken recipe that you’ll love.
