Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs , chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 onion , thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves , grated
1 cup carrot , shredded
1 fresh bay leaf
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 pinch ground cinnamon
salt & freshly ground black pepper
3/4 cup dried apricot , chopped
1 lemon , juice and zest of
3/4 cup kalamata olive , chopped
4 cups chicken stock
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons pine nuts
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1 1/2 cups couscous
1/4 cup flat leaf parsley , chopped
This Middle Eastern Chicken Pot and Butter-Nut Couscous recipe is a filling and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, sweet apricots, and salty olives creates a complex flavor profile that is both satisfying and healthy. The dish is easy to prepare and makes for a great weeknight meal. The butter-nut couscous adds a hearty texture to the dish, while the toasted pine nuts and sliced almonds lend a crunchy texture to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Instructions

1.Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2.Add the onion, garlic, and shredded carrot to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3.Add the bay leaf, smoked paprika, ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4.Stir in the dried apricots, lemon juice and zest, chopped kalamata olives, and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5.Reduce the heat and add the butter and cooked chicken to the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6.While the chicken is simmering, cook the couscous according to package instructions.
7.Toast the pine nuts and sliced almonds in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
8.To serve, spoon the chicken pot mixture over the cooked couscous and sprinkle with the toasted pine nuts, sliced almonds, and chopped parsley.

PROS

This dish is savory, hearty, and flavorful, perfect for a cold day.

The combination of chicken, dried apricots, and kalamata olives creates a unique Middle Eastern taste.

The ingredients are easy to find and the recipe is simple to follow.

CONS

This dish is relatively high in calories and fat due to the chicken and couscous.

It may not be suitable for those on a low-carb or low-fat diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is a good source of lean protein, vitamin B6, and phosphorus. It can help improve cognitive function and promote muscle growth.
Apricots are rich in antioxidants and fiber, and can help improve digestion and boost immunities.
Kalamata olives are a good source of healthy fats, calcium, and vitamin E, and may help lower inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

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