Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry is a vibrant Moroccan-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and fluffy couscous for a wholesome and balanced meal. This quick stir-fry is packed with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins, making it a great option for a nutritious and flavourful meal. In this blog, we will guide you on how to make authentic Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry and explore its nutritional benefits.
Ingredients for Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry
To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup whole wheat couscous
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (red, green, and yellow, sliced)
- 1/2 cup onions (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted almonds or sesame seeds (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry
Step 1: Cook the Couscous
Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic paste, ginger paste, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, coat well, and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and stir-fry for about 7-8 minutes until fully cooked and slightly golden.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Then add onions, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, add the fluffed couscous, and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry to a serving plate, garnish with chopped parsley and toasted almonds or sesame seeds, and serve hot.
Nutritional Information of Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry
1. High-Protein Meal
Chicken and chickpeas provide a great source of lean protein to support muscle growth and overall body function.
2. Rich in Fiber and Antioxidants
Couscous, bell peppers, and chickpeas are loaded with fiber and antioxidants, aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
3. Heart-Healthy Dish
Olive oil and chickpeas contribute to heart health by providing healthy fats and reducing cholesterol levels.
4. Balanced Macronutrients
This dish offers a well-balanced mix of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy levels.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Spices like turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory benefits, supporting overall well-being.
Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry is a delicious and nutritious Moroccan-inspired dish that blends traditional flavours with a quick and easy cooking method. Whether served for lunch or dinner, this stir-fry is a perfect way to enjoy a balanced meal. Try making Chicken and Couscous Stir-fry today and experience the taste of Morocco!
If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and let us know your favourite variation in the comments!
