Introduction

Discover the vibrant flavors of Syrian cuisine with this delightful recipe for Syrian Chicken with Giant Couscous. This dish combines tender, marinated chicken with fluffy giant couscous, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The harmony of spices and fresh ingredients ensures each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a family favorite that everyone will enjoy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 4 pieces of bone-in chicken thighs
Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Giant Couscous: 1 cup
Chicken Broth: 2 cups
Tomatoes: 1 large, diced
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
Cumin: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Fresh Parsley: for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation time for Syrian Chicken with Giant Couscous is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes the time needed to marinate the chicken and prepare your vegetables and spices, setting the stage for a delicious cooking experience.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people
This recipe yields a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy the authentic taste of Syria from the comfort of your home.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, spices (cumin, coriander, and paprika), salt, and pepper. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped onions, and sauté until they become translucent. Then, add diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, followed by minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Giant Couscous

Add giant couscous (also known as pearl couscous) into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir it well, then pour in chicken broth to cover the couscous. Bring it to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once the liquid is simmering, return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the couscous mixture. Cover and cook on low heat, allowing it to simmer and absorb the flavors for about 15-20 minutes, until the couscous is tender.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

After cooking, remove the skillet from heat. Fluff the couscous gently with a fork, then stir in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley and mint. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice on top for brightness.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Substitutions

If giant couscous is unavailable, you can substitute with regular couscous or another grain like quinoa, though cooking times may vary.

Spice Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences or add heat with chili flakes if desired.

Cook techniques

Marinating Chicken

Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and juiciness. Use a mixture of spices, yogurt, or citrus juice for a tender result.

Roasting

Roasting chicken at high temperatures helps to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and moist. Make sure to baste the chicken for extra flavor.

Cooking Couscous

Cooking giant couscous involves boiling it until it’s tender. It is then typically fluffed to separate the grains, creating a light and airy texture.

Using Fresh Herbs

Incorporating fresh herbs into your dish not only adds brightness and flavor but also elevates the overall presentation. Chopped herbs can be used as a garnish.

Preparing a Sauce

Making a sauce can enhance the dish significantly. Combine various ingredients such as yogurt, spices, and olive oil to create a creamy dressing for the couscous.

Layering Flavors

Layering flavors by adding ingredients at different stages of cooking helps build a more complex flavor profile throughout the dish.

FAQ

Can I use regular couscous instead of giant couscous?

Yes, you can substitute regular couscous, but the texture will differ. Regular couscous cooks faster and is smaller in size.

What other proteins can I use in this recipe?

Other proteins like lamb, beef, or tofu can be used instead of chicken, adjusting the cooking methods accordingly.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and couscous in advance. Reheat before serving and add any fresh ingredients just before serving.

What can I serve as a side with this dish?

You can serve a simple salad or roasted vegetables as sides, complementing the flavors of the chicken and couscous.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for the couscous.

Conclusion

The Syrian Chicken with Giant Couscous is a delightful dish that brings together the aromatic flavors of spices, tender chicken, and the unique texture of giant couscous. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that can transport you to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, showcasing how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Moroccan Chicken Tagine

This dish features chicken slow-cooked with a blend of spices, almonds, and dried fruits, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s perfect with couscous.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

A zesty and refreshing option, grilled chicken marinated with lemon and fresh herbs pairs beautifully with the warm flavors of giant couscous.

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed with a mix of grains, beans, and spices, these vibrant peppers make a lovely side or main dish alongside your chicken and couscous.

Spicy Harissa Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables tossed with harissa for a spicy kick enhance the meal and offer a colorful, healthy side dish.

Cilantro Lime Rice

An aromatic alternative that brings freshness to your plate, cilantro lime rice complements the rich flavors of the chicken and couscous beautifully.

Greek Tzatziki Sauce

This cool and creamy yogurt sauce made with cucumber and garlic adds a refreshing element that balances the spices and richness of the dish.

Tabbouleh Salad

A refreshing salad of parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur, tabbouleh adds a light and vibrant side dish to your meal, enhancing the overall freshness.