This Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Apricot Couscous Bake is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings a touch of North African flair to your dining table. The juicy chicken is seasoned with a blend of warm spices, while fluffy couscous is studded with sweet apricots, creating a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures.
Baking the chicken atop the couscous allows all the juices to meld into the grains, resulting in a deliciously satisfying one-pan meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy gathering with friends, and it’s sure to impress with its colorful presentation and rich, exotic taste.
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, coating them well.
- In a large baking dish, combine the couscous, chicken broth, chopped apricots, slivered almonds, and raisins. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
- Place the spiced chicken thighs on top of the couscous mixture.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the couscous is fluffy.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro before enjoying.
Notes
Tip: For extra depth of flavor, sauté the couscous in olive oil before adding the broth.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spice mix for a few hours before baking. You can also substitute raisins or dried cranberries for the apricots if desired. To make this dish even more vibrant, add some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.