Harissa Chicken with Couscous and Cucumber Salad (1 Hour, 2 Minutes)

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This dish features a vibrant combination of flavors with homemade harissa chicken breast, served alongside fluffy couscous and a refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing.

The harissa lends a smoky, spicy kick to the tender chicken, while the cucumber salad offers a crisp, cooling contrast.

This meal is both nutritious and full of flavor, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

  • Prep Time: 42 minutes (includes marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
For the harissa chicken:
  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
For the couscous:
  • 1 cup couscous
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the cucumber salad:
  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Fresh dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken (30 minutes + cooking):
    1. In a bowl, combine the harissa paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade.
    2. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
    3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  2. Prepare the couscous (5 minutes):
    • Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Add olive oil and salt.
    • Pour boiling water over the couscous, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
    • Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
  3. Make the cucumber salad (10 minutes):
    • In a serving bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, white vinegar, sugar, and salt.
    • Toss the ingredients to ensure the cucumbers are well coated. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to marinate, tossing occasionally.
    • Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh dill before serving for added flavor.
  4. Assemble and serve (2 minutes):
    • Slice the rested harissa chicken breasts.
    • Serve the sliced chicken alongside a scoop of couscous and a generous portion of the cucumber salad.

Notes

This harissa chicken dinner is a balanced meal that offers a delightful array of textures and flavors. The spiciness of the harissa chicken pairs wonderfully with the simplicity of the couscous and the tangy freshness of the cucumber salad.

For the best results, ensure the chicken is thoroughly marinated to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Feel free to jazz up the couscous or cucumber salad as desired for an even more elevated dish!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g

Pair this with...

Easy Dinner Rolls

Start by combining warm water, yeast, and a bit of sugar in a bowl, letting it sit until it's frothy. In a larger bowl, mix together softened butter, salt, the rest of your sugar, and some milk. Slowly add in flour, mixing until you have a soft dough. Knead this dough on a floured surface until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size. Once risen, divide the dough into small balls and arrange them on a baking tray. Let them rise again briefly. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. Brush with melted butter right out of the oven for a glossy finish.

Simple Green Salad

Begin by selecting crisp lettuce leaves, giving them a thorough wash and a gentle pat dry. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them as the foundation of your salad. Next, slice ripe tomatoes, their juicy segments promising a burst of sweetness. Add these to the lettuce, their vibrant red contrasting beautifully against the green. For a refreshing crunch, slice a cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, layering them amongst the other ingredients. For dressing, a light drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice will enhance the salad's natural flavors without overshadowing them. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and any herbs of your choosing.

Homemade Unsweetened Iced Tea

Begin by choosing a quality black, green, or herbal tea – your preference will set the tone. Bring a pot of fresh water to a gentle boil and steep your tea bags or loose leaves, letting the tea brew a bit stronger than if you were making it hot, as it will mellow when chilled. Once you’ve achieved that deep, aromatic infusion, remove the tea and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer your tea to a pitcher and pop it into the fridge to cool down and intensify the flavors. When serving, fill a glass with ice cubes, pour over the chilled tea, and maybe add a slice of lemon or sprig of mint for a touch of flair.

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