In a large bowl or serving platter, spread the couscous as the base Recipe
A flavorful and wholesome dish featuring tender balsamic-glazed chicken, fluffy couscous, and vibrant roasted vegetables, topped with crumbled feta and fresh parsley. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
- Author: Douaa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Couscous
- 1 cup dry couscous
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Topping
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Roast the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced zucchini, chopped red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
- Cook the Couscous: Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Remove it from heat, then stir in the dry couscous and olive oil. Cover the saucepan and let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid. Fluff the couscous with a fork and mix in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they are lightly browned. Then, add balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and become coated in a flavorful balsamic glaze.
- Assemble the Dish: On a large serving bowl or platter, spread the fluffed couscous as the base layer. Top it evenly with the balsamic chicken pieces and roasted vegetables.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh and creamy finish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan-friendly dish (omit feta or replace with vegan cheese).
- Adjust seasoning and balsamic vinegar amount according to taste preference.
- Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances flavor.
- To save time, prep vegetables and marinade chicken ahead of time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: balsamic chicken, couscous recipe, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, Mediterranean dinner, quick healthy meal