Couscous with Lemon, Chicken, and Dates
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PT10M
PT8M
Prep Time
10 minsCook Time
8-9 minsFree Time
to take the dog for an extra lap around the block
Cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, lemon, and dates give this fragrant chicken its complex spiced, fruity flavor. We pair it with fluffy couscous, a North African pasta made from semolina. Top with fresh cilantro and pomegranate seeds to elevate it into a fancy-occasion-worthy meal.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Deep Dish
The best dish for 1-2 portions of grains, veggies, mac and cheese, ramen, and more.
The Anyhand Mitts
Handle hot Anyday dishes with care with these microwave mitts that double as trivets!
Ingredients
- ½ lb (225g) boneless and skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ground
- ½ teaspoon turmeric, ground
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon cumin, ground
- black pepper, to taste
- salt, to taste
- ½ medium shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup (85g) Moroccan couscous (not pearl / Israeli couscous, which takes longer to cook)
- ¼ cup (35g), about 3-6 dates, pitted and cut into medium dice
- 1½ teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup (180ml) chicken stock
- pomegranate seeds (optional)
- cilantro, chopped (optional)
Preparation
- In a separate bowl, mix the chicken, cinnamon, turmeric, chili flakes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate while preparing the rest of the dish.
- Place the shallot and oil in the Anyday dish. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the couscous, chicken stock, dates, and lemon juice to the dish and mix to combine. Place the chicken evenly on top, but do not stir it in. Cover and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the chicken is cooked through.
- Fluff the couscous a bit, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and pomegranate seeds to garnish.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Enjoy with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and a light cucumber salad.
- Try it with shrimp or tofu for a delicious dish.
Recipe notes
- Make sure to use regular or Morrocan-style couscous and not pearled couscous that needs longer cooking time.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
