Spicy Harissa Chicken and Couscous Salad – A Flavor Explosion!
Hey there, food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that’s bursting with flavor and absolutely delicious – the Harissa Chicken and Couscous Salad. This dish is a perfect fusion of spicy, smoky, and refreshing flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you to the vibrant culinary scene of North Africa!
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Harissa Paste: 3 tablespoons (adjust to your desired spice level)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Couscous: 1 cup
- Chicken Broth: 1 1/4 cups
- Lemon Juice: 3 tablespoons
- Parsley: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Mint: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Red Onion: 1/2 cup, thinly sliced
- Cucumber: 1 cup, diced
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix the harissa paste with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly with the harissa mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to marry.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook the Couscous: In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl.
- Assemble the Salad: To the cooked couscous, add the sliced chicken, lemon juice, parsley, mint, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. Gently toss to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy: Divide the salad among serving plates or bowls. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, if desired. Enjoy this flavorful and vibrant salad!
Additional Tips
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste to suit your desired spice level. Start with less and gradually increase until you achieve your preferred heat.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses or a sprinkle of sumac over the salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious!
Nutritional Value
This Harissa Chicken and Couscous Salad is a well-balanced and nutritious meal. It provides a good source of lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the couscous, and an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh vegetables and herbs.
