Chicken with raisins and almonds & couscous sprinkled with seeds

Chicken with Raisins and Almonds Served with Couscous Sprinkled with Seeds - A Delicious and Aromatic Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

This recipe for chicken with raisins and almonds, accompanied by couscous sprinkled with seeds, is a true explosion of flavors that will transport you to a world of refined tastes. Inspired by rich culinary traditions, this recipe combines the sweetness of raisins with the crunchiness of almonds, creating a perfect combination. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 500 g chicken meat (thighs or boneless breast)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, julienned
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 300-400 ml chicken stock (or a diluted Knorr cube)
- 1 large orange (zest and juice)
- 75 g raisins
- 80 g almonds (recommended whole)
- 250 g couscous (for 4 people)
- Pumpkin seeds (optional)
- Fresh chopped mint (optional)
- Salt, to taste

Recipe Story

This recipe for chicken with raisins and almonds has deep roots in Mediterranean culinary traditions, where combinations of meat with dried fruits are extremely popular. Raisins add a sweet note, while almonds provide a crunchy texture, transforming an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. Whether served on a special occasion or simply for a family dinner, this dish will surely impress.

Step by Step

1. Prepare the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C (6 on the oven scale).

2. Sauté the ingredients: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the julienned onion and sauté for 10 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the ginger, sweet paprika, cinnamon, and a few strands of fresh saffron. Mix well and let the flavors combine.

3. Brown the chicken: Remove the onion from the skillet and set aside. Add pieces of chicken to the skillet and brown them on both sides until golden. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier texture or diced chicken breast, depending on your preferences.

4. Assemble the dish: In a heat-resistant dish, place the browned chicken. Add the sautéed onion, the zest and juice of the orange, along with the chicken stock. Mix all the ingredients to combine well.

5. Bake the dish: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy. Check if it is well cooked, then add the raisins and toasted almonds. Leave in the oven for another 10-15 minutes to caramelize slightly.

6. Prepare the couscous: In another container, boil water with a little salt. When the water boils, pour in the couscous and cover with a tight lid. Let it absorb the water for 5-10 minutes.

7. Assemble the plate: Once the chicken is ready, serve it alongside the fluffy couscous. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds and fresh mint on top for added flavor and an attractive appearance.

8. Enjoy: The meal is now ready to be savored! Try to arrange your plate carefully to impress your guests. You will surely be complimented for this easy and delicious recipe!

Practical Tips

- Meat selection: If you choose to use chicken breast, make sure not to overcook it to avoid it becoming dry. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and remain juicy.
- Raisins: Before adding them to the dish, you can soak the raisins in warm water or orange juice to make them even juicier.
- Almonds: If you have whole almonds, you can lightly toast them in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the chicken with tofu or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version of the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other dried fruits?
Yes, you can replace raisins with dried apricots or figs for a different variation.

2. How can I make the couscous more interesting?
You can add sautéed vegetables or fresh herbs to the couscous for added flavor and color.

3. How can I store the dish?
The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the couscous for up to 5 days. Just reheat before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken meat, while the raisins and almonds add fiber and healthy fats. The orange provides vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system.

Delicious Combinations

To turn this meal into a complete experience, you can serve it alongside a glass of white wine or mint tea. Additionally, a fresh vegetable salad with yogurt dressing would bring a delicious contrast and a note of freshness.

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking! This recipe for chicken with raisins and almonds will surely become a favorite in your family!