Moroccan Couscous Recipe

Easy Moroccan Chicken Couscous

This comforting dish brings the best of Moroccan flavors: fluffy couscous, tender vegetables, and juicy chicken simmered in warm spices. It’s a complete meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for everyday cooking or special Friday lunch.

✅ Ingredients

For the Couscous:

• 1½ cups fine couscous (Moroccan-style)
• 1½ cups boiling water
• 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil (sunflower or vegetable)
• ½ tsp salt

For the Chicken & Vegetables:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 2 chicken thighs and 2 drumsticks (or any cut you prefer, bone-in for more flavor)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 medium potato, cubed
• 1 tomato, grated or finely chopped
• 1 handful of cooked or canned chickpeas (rinsed)
• 1 tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 to 1½ cups water or broth
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

🍽️ Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Couscous

1. Place couscous in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix with your fingers or a spoon to coat the grains.
2. Pour in the boiling water, cover the bowl tightly, and let it sit for 5–7 minutes.
3. Fluff with a fork once all the water is absorbed. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken & Vegetables

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and lightly brown them on all sides (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden.
4. Add the carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and grated tomato. Stir well.
5. Add chickpeas, then season everything with turmeric, ginger, paprika, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in 1 to 1½ cups of water or broth, enough to almost cover the ingredients. Stir.
7. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally and add a little water if it dries out.

✅ The broth should be flavorful and not too watery — just enough to moisten the couscous when serving.

Step 3: Assemble & Serve

1. Spread the couscous on a large serving platter.
2. Arrange the chicken pieces on top.
3. Spoon the vegetables and broth evenly over the couscous.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Serve hot and enjoy with harissa on the side for a spicy kick or a slice of lemon for freshness.

📝 Tips & Variations:

• Meat options: You can use lamb or beef instead of chicken.
• Make-ahead: Couscous can be steamed/fluffed earlier and rewarmed with a little broth or water.
• Want richer flavor? Add a pinch of cumin or a cube of chicken bouillon.

🧊 Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat with a splash of water or broth to bring back the texture.