Couscous with chicken and tomatoes

Delicious Couscous Recipe with Chicken and Tomatoes: A combination of flavors that will delight your taste buds

If you're looking for a quick and tasty recipe, couscous with chicken and tomatoes is the perfect choice. This simple recipe combines fresh ingredients and intense flavors to create a dish that is easy to prepare but will impress family and friends. Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients list

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300 g)
- 150 g couscous
- 100 g cheese (choose a cheese with a stronger flavor, such as smoked cheese)
- 1 large ripe tomato
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh or dried basil, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup of hot water

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken breast

To achieve tender and juicy meat, start by slicing the chicken breast into thin pieces. This will help with even and quick cooking. In a large skillet, heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken slices and fry until they are nicely browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Helpful tips: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the skillet, otherwise the meat will steam instead of frying.

Step 2: Adding the flavors

When the chicken is browned, add the garlic cloves cut into quarters. This will add a delicious aroma. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, to taste. Mix well and let the flavors combine for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the baking dish

Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent the couscous from sticking. Evenly sprinkle 150 g of uncooked couscous on the bottom of the dish. This will absorb all the delicious flavors of the dish.

Step 4: Assembling the dish

On top of the couscous, place the browned chicken slices evenly. Then, pour a cup of hot water over the chicken and couscous. This step is essential to ensure a fluffy texture of the couscous.

Step 5: Adding the tomatoes and seasonings

Slice the tomato and place the slices on top of the chicken. Sprinkle salt and pepper, to taste, and add the fresh or dried basil. This will provide an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

Step 6: Finishing with cheese

Grate the cheese over the dish, covering everything evenly. It will melt and form a delicious crust during baking.

Step 7: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted. You will feel the tempting aroma of the food throughout the house!

Chef's tip

For a more sophisticated taste and presentation, you can add some sliced black or green olives on top before baking the dish. They will add a salty note that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Delicious variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey meat or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option. You can also add olives, bell peppers, or other seasonal vegetables to the couscous mixture.

Nutritional benefits

This couscous recipe with chicken and tomatoes is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains essential vitamins from the tomatoes and basil. The couscous provides complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. It is a balanced meal, perfect for a family dinner.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain couscous?
Yes, whole grain couscous is a healthy option, high in fiber, which can improve digestion.

2. What can I serve this dish with?
This couscous with chicken and tomatoes pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. A glass of dry white wine will complement the meal beautifully.

3. How long can this dish be stored?
If there are leftovers, you can keep the dish in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Personal note

This couscous recipe with chicken and tomatoes reminds me of the evenings spent with family, when we would gather around the table and enjoy meals cooked with love. I hope it brings you the same moments of joy and warmth with your loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe and adapt it to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!