Save Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Creamy Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Bake. This comforting one-pan dish combines tender Greek lemon chicken with plump pearl couscous, fresh baby spinach, and creamy feta cheese, all baked together for a meal that is as effortless as it is delicious.
Save Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family dinner, this bake transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated meal. The Greek yogurt and heavy cream form a silky sauce that perfectly complements the iron-rich spinach and savory chicken thighs, making it a wholesome choice for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, zest and juice of 1 lemon, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Couscous & Vegetables: 1 cup pearl couscous (Israeli couscous), 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 3 cups fresh baby spinach, 1 medium red onion (finely chopped), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup heavy cream.
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley, lemon wedges.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well.
- Step 3
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden but not cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 4
- In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion for 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 5
- Stir in pearl couscous and toast for 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Step 6
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 7
- Add spinach and stir until just wilted.
- Step 8
- Stir in Greek yogurt and heavy cream until combined.
- Step 9
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the couscous mixture. Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top.
- Step 10
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the couscous is tender.
- Step 11
- Remove from oven. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a heavy oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven is key for even heat distribution. Ensure you toast the pearl couscous properly; this simple step prevents the grains from becoming gummy and adds a subtle nutty depth to the final dish. Don't skip searing the chicken, as it locks in juices and builds flavor in the pan.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, add a handful of halved cherry tomatoes before baking. You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred, but reduce the baking time by 5 minutes to ensure they stay tender. To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth while adding more spinach or roasted vegetables like bell peppers.
Serviervorschläge
After the dish has rested for five minutes, garnish generously with fresh herbs. Serve each portion with a lemon wedge to brighten the creamy sauce. This one-pan bake is a complete meal on its own, but a simple side of roasted asparagus or a crisp cucumber salad would complement the Mediterranean profile beautifully.
Save With its harmonious blend of lean protein, greens, and hearty grains, this Creamy Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Bake is a nutritious choice for your dinner rotation. Enjoy the simplicity of one-pan cooking without sacrificing the complex, satisfying flavors of a well-prepared Mediterranean meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well in this dish. Reduce the baking time by 5 minutes to prevent drying, as breasts cook faster than thighs.
- → What can I substitute for pearl couscous?
Israeli couscous is the same as pearl couscous. Alternatively, orzo pasta or regular couscous can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
- → How do I make this vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more spinach, roasted vegetables, or chickpeas for protein and substance.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything up to step 9, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes if baking cold from the refrigerator.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or zucchini complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Add them before baking.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.