Save Experience the vibrant and comforting flavors of the Mediterranean with this Creamy Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Bake. This one-pan wonder brings together succulent chicken thighs and plump, toasted pearl couscous in a lemony, herb-infused sauce that is both sophisticated and incredibly simple to prepare.
Save By nesting marinated chicken directly onto a bed of couscous and spinach, the grains absorb all the savory juices as they bake, resulting in a dish that is deeply flavorful throughout. It is a wholesome meal that brings the warmth of Greek cooking straight to your family table.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 500 g), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, Zest of 1 lemon.
- Couscous & Vegetables: 1 cup (180 g) pearl couscous, 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach (roughly chopped), 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth, ¾ cup (180 ml) whole milk, Juice of 1 lemon, ½ cup (75 g) crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup (20 g) grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish (optional): Fresh dill or parsley (chopped), Lemon wedges.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Step 3
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft (about 3 minutes), then stir in the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
- Step 4
- Add the pearl couscous to the skillet and toast, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden.
- Step 5
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and lemon juice. Stir in the chopped baby spinach, half of the feta cheese, and all of the Parmesan cheese.
- Step 6
- Nestle the marinated chicken thighs on top of the couscous and liquid mixture.
- Step 7
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the couscous is tender.
- Step 8
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with the remaining feta and fresh herbs, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, always toast the pearl couscous until it smells nutty and looks golden; this prevents it from becoming mushy. If you prefer a deeper sear on your meat, you can brown the chicken thighs in the skillet for 2 minutes per side before proceeding with the onion and garlic.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute chicken breasts for the thighs, though you should monitor the oven closely as they cook faster. For an extra Mediterranean flair, try stirring in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or salty kalamata olives before baking. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use a certified gluten-free couscous alternative.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing Greek salad and some warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy lemon sauce.
Save With its harmonious blend of protein, grains, and greens, this Creamy Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Bake is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the simplicity of one-pan cooking without sacrificing a bit of flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well in this dish. Since they're leaner than thighs, they may cook slightly faster, so check for doneness a few minutes early. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- → What can I substitute for pearl couscous?
You can use regular couscous, orzo pasta, or even rice. Adjust the liquid amount and cooking time accordingly. For a gluten-free option, use quinoa or gluten-free couscous.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the mixture seems dry.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything just before baking for best results. The dish also reheats beautifully for meal prep.
- → What sides pair well with this bake?
A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion complements the creamy textures. Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce, roasted vegetables, or grilled zucchini also work wonderfully.