Looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Middle East right to your table? Our Chicken Couscous Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and zesty tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing! With tender shredded chicken, fluffy couscous, and a burst of colorful vegetables all tossed in a tangy lemon dressing, this salad is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch. Plus, it’s ready in just 35 minutes! Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over high heat.
- Remove the boiling broth from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover the pan and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid completely.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Allow it to cool to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- While the couscous is cooling, dice the bell pepper into small, uniform pieces.
- Add the shredded chicken, diced bell pepper, and crumbled feta cheese to the cooled couscous.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and nutritious meal.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables to enhance the flavors of your salad.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Perfectly Fluff the Couscous: After letting the couscous sit, fluff it gently with a fork to keep it light and airy.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Make it Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge, so you can prepare it a day in advance for an easy meal prep option.
- Serve with a Twist: For a fun twist, serve the salad in pita pockets or lettuce wraps for a refreshing handheld meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
