Introduction to Moroccan Chicken
By Linda Gassenheimer, Tribune News Service
Chicken seasoned with cinnamon, cumin, and turmeric creates a fragrant, savory Moroccan-inspired dish. The turmeric not only infuses the chicken with a warm golden hue but also adds a earthy depth to the flavor.
It’s served with pearl couscous which is also called Israeli couscous. Its small, round, pearl-like grains are slightly larger and chewier than traditional couscous, making them an ideal companion to the aromatic chicken.
Helpful Hints for Preparation
Minced garlic can be found in the produce section of the market.
A quick way to chop cilantro is to snip the leaves from the stems with a scissors.
Countdown to Cooking
To ensure a smooth cooking process, follow this countdown:
- Prepare the chicken, onion, tomato, and spices.
- Make pearl couscous and set aside.
- Make the chicken dish.
Shopping List
To buy:
- 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 small bottle turmeric
- 1 small bottle cinnamon
- 1 small bottle ground cumin
- 1 jar minced garlic
- 1 can no-salt-added diced tomatoes
- 1 container pearl couscous
- 1 bag washed, ready-to-eat spinach
- 1 bunch cilantro
Staples: olive oil, onion, salt, and black peppercorns.
Moroccan Chicken Recipe
Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup thinly sliced onion
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 teaspoons ground cumin
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups no-salt-added diced tomatoes with their juice
- 4 cups washed, ready-to-eat spinach
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Heat oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on all sides, for about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from skillet to a plate. Add the onion, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, garlic, salt, and black pepper to taste, and diced tomato with juice to the skillet. Cook 5 minutes, stirring during that time. Return chicken to the skillet along with the spinach. Stir just until the spinach wilts, about 1 minute. Divide between 2 dinner plates and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
Yield: 2 servings.
Per serving: 354 calories (27 percent from fat), 10.7 g fat (1.8 g saturated, 3.9 g monounsaturated), 126 mg cholesterol, 43.9 g protein, 23.4 g carbohydrates, 9.4 g fiber, 162 mg sodium.
Couscous Recipe
Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 3/4 cup pearl couscous
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Bring water to a boil. Stir in couscous. Reduce heat to medium, cover with a lid, and simmer 10 minutes. Drain, add oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve on the dinner plates with the chicken.
Yield: 2 servings.
Per serving: 120 calories (37 percent from fat), 5.0 g fat (0.7 g saturated, 2.2 g monounsaturated), no cholesterol, 2.9 g protein, 15.8 g carbohydrates, 0.9 g fiber, 1 mg sodium.
Conclusion
Moroccan Chicken with pearl couscous is a flavorful and nutritious meal that combines the warmth of Moroccan spices with the simplicity of quick cooking. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. The use of turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin provides not only flavor but also potential health benefits, making this recipe a great addition to a healthy meal plan.
FAQs
- Q: What is the difference between pearl couscous and regular couscous?
A: Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, has larger, chewier grains compared to traditional couscous. - Q: Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
A: Yes, you can use shrimp, beef, or lamb as alternatives, adjusting cooking times based on the protein chosen. - Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cool the dish to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 days or 2 months, respectively. - Q: Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
A: This recipe is relatively low in calories and fat and can be adapted for gluten-free diets by ensuring the couscous is gluten-free. However, always check the ingredients of store-bought items like canned tomatoes and spices for compliance with specific dietary needs.
