Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts , cut into bite-sized pieces ( raw )
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 large yellow onion , chopped
4 garlic cloves , mined
1 tablespoon fresh ginger , chopped
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 1/2 cups canned chicken broth
1 cup crushed tomatoes , canned
1 cup canned chick-peas , drained
1 small zucchini , sliced
3 tablespoons fresh parsley , chopped ( optional )
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
4 cups cooked couscous
Shelly's Chicken and Zucchini Couscous is a spicy and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter nights. The combination of tender chicken, earthy chickpeas, and tender zucchini simmered in a rich and fragrant tomato broth makes for a comforting meal that will leave your taste buds craving for more. This dish is inspired by the flavors of North Africa and the Middle East and is a great way to experiment with new ingredients that are both healthy and delicious. The couscous is light and fluffy, and it absorbs the flavors of the sauce perfectly. Overall, Shelly's Chicken and Zucchini Couscous is a dish that you will want to keep in your recipe box as a go-to meal for busy weeknights.

Instructions

1.Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2.Add chicken and sprinkle with salt. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally for about 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
3.Add onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook over medium heat until the onion is tender for about 5 minutes.
4.Add paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and turmeric to the skillet. Stir for 1 minute.
5.Add broth, tomatoes, and chick-peas to the skillet. Bring to boil, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6.Add zucchini and the chicken juice that has collected on the plate, stir well. Add the chicken back to the skillet. Cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened for about 10 minutes.
7.Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Serve the chicken sauce over cooked couscous.

PROS

Shelly’s Chicken and Zucchini Couscous is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a weekday dinner.
It’s packed with protein and nutrients, and the spices add a depth of flavor that is sure to satisfy.
The couscous is easy to make and serves as a great base for the chicken and vegetable sauce.
It is also a great option for meal prep as it can be reheated easily for lunch the next day.

CONS

The spice levels can be adjusted to taste, but be careful not to make it too spicy for those who may not prefer the heat.
It contains chick-peas which can cause bloating and gas for some individuals if consumed in large quantities.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The chicken used in this recipe is a great source of protein which is essential for the growth and repair of the body. Zucchini is a rich source of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, which can help improve vision, regulate blood pressure and promote digestive health. The spices used in this recipe have various health benefits. Cumin and turmeric have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Cayenne pepper and paprika can help stimulate metabolism and reduce hunger. Oregano provides antioxidants and may help fight infections. The chickpeas serve as a great source of fiber and protein which can promote weight management and help control blood sugar levels.

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