Craving a taste of exotic flavors without the hassle of complex recipes? Look no further than this one-pan Moroccan baked chicken and couscous dish. With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy couscous, this meal will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Marrakech while keeping your kitchen mess to a minimum.
Imagine a harmonious blend of warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and paprika enveloping succulent chicken thighs and couscous, all baked to perfection in a single pan. The result? A dish that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort on your part. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary adventurer, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry couscous
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sliced green olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
- Scatter the sliced onion and minced garlic around the chicken.
- Sprinkle the dry couscous over the chicken and onion mixture, then pour the chicken broth over everything.
- Cover the skillet or baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the lid or foil, and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the couscous has absorbed all the liquid.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork, and stir in the sliced green olives and chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, refreshing squeeze.
This one-pan wonder is the epitome of effortless elegance. With its bold Moroccan flavors and minimal cleanup required, it’s the perfect weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for your next dinner party. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that’s as delicious as it is easy.
