Save to Pinterest Moroccan Spiced Chicken with Couscous brings the colors and aromas of North Africa to your table. Juicy chicken thighs are wrapped in warm spices then paired with golden couscous tossed with sweet dried fruits, crisp vegetables, and toasted almonds. This meal transforms everyday ingredients into something exotic yet approachable for any home cook.
The first time I cooked this, my house filled with the scent of cinnamon and cumin and my family gathered at the table before I even called them. It quickly became our go-to for impressing dinner guests or just adding a bit of comfort to a chilly evening.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: provide juicy texture and soak up the spice marinade Look for fresh, plump pieces with even color
- Olive oil: helps the spice rub stick and keeps the chicken moist Use extra virgin for a fruity flavor
- Ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric: layer complex warmth and color Choose fresh, fragrant spices from a high-turnover section
- Cayenne pepper: optional for a little kick Check freshness if you want distinct heat
- Salt and black pepper: balance and enhance all the other flavors Sea salt or kosher salt work best for even seasoning
- Garlic: offers a sharp aromatic bite Use firm cloves with no green shoots
- Lemon juice: brightens and tenderizes the chicken Pick lemons that feel heavy for their size
- Couscous: delivers a fluffy, quick-cooking base Look for medium grain for easy preparation
- Chicken broth or water: infuses the couscous with subtle flavor Salted broth makes it more savory
- Red onion: brings color and gentle sweetness Choose onions with a shiny skin for freshness
- Carrot and zucchini: offer color and tender crunch Use firm veggies without blemishes
- Raisins or dried apricots: add a pop of sweetness Check for glossy, plump fruit with rich color
- Toasted slivered almonds: provide nutty crunch Toast lightly for an even golden color
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: brings leafy freshness Chop just before adding for best flavor
- Essential kitchen tools: include a sturdy skillet or grill pan and a sharp knife for prepping chicken and veggies
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine olive oil cumin coriander paprika cinnamon turmeric cayenne salt pepper garlic and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl Stir vigorously until evenly combined then add chicken thighs Toss each piece to ensure every surface is coated Let this rest at least fifteen minutes and up to two hours to let the flavors soak in
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high until a drop of water sizzles Place chicken thighs into the pan let them cook undisturbed for five to six minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through with juices that run clear Transfer to a warm plate rest for a few minutes so the juices settle
- Prepare Couscous:
- Meanwhile bring chicken broth or water to a brisk boil in a saucepan Stir in couscous pour in olive oil cover and remove from heat The grains will absorb all the liquid in about five minutes Fluff with a fork to separate and keep light
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a separate skillet heat olive oil over medium Add red onion carrot and zucchini Sauté steadily for five to seven minutes stirring occasionally until the veggies soften and become fragrant Scatter in raisins or diced apricots and let them plump up for two more minutes
- Finish and Combine:
- Add sautéed vegetables toasted almonds and fresh herbs to the fluffed couscous Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper Toss until everything is mingled for a lively colorful mixture
- Serve:
- Slice chicken thighs or keep whole and arrange atop couscous mound Sprinkle with more chopped herbs and an extra squeeze of lemon if you like Serve immediately while hot
Save to Pinterest The toasted almonds may be my favorite addition They bring a gentle crunch that wakes up every bite I remember my kids carefully picking every last almond out right before asking for seconds One of my fondest memories is watching my family sneak extra sprigs of cilantro from the cutting board because they simply loved the fresh herby touch
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water The couscous will absorb more liquid as it sits so fluff it again and maybe add a bit more lemon to freshen it up If you plan on freezing freeze the couscous and chicken separately to keep the textures just right
Ingredient Substitutions
Quinoa or millet both create a gluten-free base instead of couscous Swap chicken thighs with chickpeas or cubed tofu for a vegetarian plate Dried cranberries or chopped dried figs can be sweet alternatives to raisins If almonds are out of reach try toasted sunflower seeds or leave nuts out completely for allergy-friendly prep
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a dollop of yogurt or coconut yogurt if you want a creamy element Fresh arugula or spinach on the side adds extra greens and a peppery bite Top with harissa sauce for a traditional spicy Moroccan kick Pair with mint tea or a summer white wine for a refreshing touch
Cultural and Historical Roots
Moroccan cuisine is famous for seasoning blends that balance sweet and savory This dish draws on ras el hanout a signature spice mix with ingredients like cumin and cinnamon Couscous is a centuries-old North African staple and takes on new personality in every home across Morocco
Seasonal Adaptations
Roasted butternut squash in fall brings a deeper sweetness Add roasted bell peppers in the summer for bright color Swap zucchini for eggplant or tomatoes if that is what your market offers
Save to Pinterest This dish stands out as a centerpiece but is flexible enough for easy weeknight dinners From the first bright spoonful, you will want to make it again and again.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can the chicken be grilled instead of pan-cooked?
Yes, grilling delivers a smoky flavor and works well with the aromatic spice marinade.
- → What can I use as a couscous substitute for gluten-free?
Quinoa or gluten-free grains make a suitable replacement for couscous here.
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Allow at least 15 minutes, but up to 2 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
- → What vegetables work best with couscous?
Zucchini, carrot, onion, and even bell pepper add color and texture alongside the couscous.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with chickpeas and vegetable broth for a meatless version.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and extra toasted almonds make great finishing touches.