Looking for a delicious, quick, and wholesome dinner idea that actually tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen? This garlic chicken with couscous recipe is a game-changer! It’s a perfect blend of juicy chicken, garlicky goodness, and fluffy couscous—all ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding the family, this dish brings bold flavor and simplicity together.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Couscous:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint, a squeeze of lemon
🔥 Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil if needed. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Couscous
While the chicken cooks, bring chicken broth or water to a boil. Add couscous, olive oil (or butter), and a pinch of salt. Stir once, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
🕒 Total Time Breakdown:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Marinate time: 15 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total active time: About 30 minutes
💡 Tips for Success:
- Short on time? Skip marinating and just let the flavors sear in while cooking.
- Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Make it fancy: Serve with roasted veggies or drizzle with tzatziki or yogurt sauce.
📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic chicken with couscous is not just tasty—it’s meal-prep friendly, budget-conscious, and packed with protein. Plus, couscous cooks in minutes, making this ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish delivers every time.
