Indulge in the exotic flavors of Morocco with this delicious Moroccan Chicken and Nutty Whole Grain Couscous recipe. Tender chicken is marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, then cooked to perfection and served on a bed of nutty whole grain couscous. This dish is packed with flavor and will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Marrakech. It's a perfect hearty and healthy meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the chicken marinade:
- - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- - 2 tablespoons olive oil
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- - 1 teaspoon paprika
- - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- - 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- - Juice of 1 lemon
- - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- For the Moroccan couscous:
- - 1 cup whole grain couscous
- - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- - 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- - 1/4 cup raisins
- - 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- - 1 tablespoon olive oil
- - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the chicken marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the grill or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the couscous according to package instructions, using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous, dried apricots, raisins, sliced almonds, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, pepper, and fresh mint leaves. Toss well to combine.
- Serve the grilled Moroccan chicken on a bed of nutty whole grain couscous. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
- Enjoy the flavors of Morocco in every bite!
Interesting Facts
Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and rich spices.
Couscous is a staple ingredient in Moroccan cuisine and is often served with meat or vegetables.
The combination of spices used in this recipe, such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Apricots and raisins are commonly used dried fruits in Moroccan cuisine to add a hint of sweetness to savory dishes.
Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky flavor and a slightly charred crust, adding to the overall taste experience.