Harissa-Glazed Chicken with Pistachio Couscous
Step out of your dinner rut with this week's vibrant recommendation! Sweet and spicy harissa-glazed chicken pairs perfectly with a zesty pistachio pearl couscous, bringing an exciting Mediterranean twist to your table. It is an unexpected, flavor-packed meal that perfectly balances heat, sweetness, and crunch.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs8 pieces
- Harissa paste3 tbsp
- Honey2 tbsp
- Olive oil2 tbsp
- Pearl couscous1.5 cups
- Chicken broth2 cups
- Shelled pistachios, roughly chopped0.5 cup
- Fresh lemon (zested and juiced)1 piece
- Fresh mint, chopped0.25 cup
- Salt and black pepper1 to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the harissa paste, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss until evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature.
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-14 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff gently with a fork.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until beautifully browned. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
While the chicken finishes baking, fold the chopped pistachios, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped mint into the warm couscous. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Divide the zesty pistachio couscous evenly among four plates. Top each mound with the sticky, spicy harissa chicken thighs. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh mint and a drizzle of the pan juices.