Exotic couscous

Exotic Couscous with Chicken and Tropical Flavors

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Couscous, a versatile and easy-to-prepare ingredient, has its roots in the culinary traditions of diverse cultures. Although often associated with North African dishes, couscous has gained popularity worldwide due to its quick cooking time and nutritional benefits. This exotic couscous recipe with chicken and tropical flavors will take you on a delicious culinary journey, full of freshness and taste.

Ingredients:

- 300 g couscous
- 600 g chicken breast
- 1 avocado
- 1 lemon
- 2 oranges
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil for dressing + 3 tablespoons for frying the chicken breast
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the Chicken Breast:
Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Once cleaned, dry it with a paper towel and generously season it with salt and pepper. In a pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. Add the chicken breast and let it cook evenly, turning it occasionally. When cooked, remove it from the pan and let it cool. Then, cut it into cubes.

2. Preparing the Couscous:
Follow the instructions on the package to prepare the couscous. You can either boil it in water or add boiling water (about 500 ml) over it and cover it with plastic wrap, letting it swell for 5 minutes. After it has absorbed the water, drain the excess and set it aside.

3. Preparing the Fresh Ingredients:
Meanwhile, finely chop the parsley, peel the avocado and oranges, then cut them into cubes. These ingredients will add texture and freshness to your dish.

4. Preparing the Dressing:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon and one orange. In a small bowl, combine the citrus juice with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to obtain a uniform dressing.

5. Assembling the Dish:
In a large bowl, add the prepared couscous, chicken cubes, chopped parsley, avocado, and oranges. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to combine all the ingredients without breaking the avocado cubes.

6. Serving:
Serve this exotic couscous on a beautiful platter, possibly garnished with a few fresh parsley leaves. I recommend pairing it with a refreshing Campari Orange cocktail.

Campari Orange Cocktail:
- 50 ml Campari bitters
- 150 ml natural orange juice
- Ice cubes

Mix the ingredients in a glass with ice and enjoy it alongside your exotic couscous!

Useful Tip:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a few fresh mint leaves or a pinch of chili to the dressing. If you want to turn this recipe into a vegetarian dish, you can replace the chicken breast with cooked chickpeas or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits:
Couscous is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Chicken breast is rich in protein, while avocado and oranges bring a healthy dose of good fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use whole grain couscous?
Yes, whole grain couscous is an excellent option, adding extra fiber and nutrients.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes, which add color and texture.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a holiday meal?
Absolutely! This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Possible Variations:
To add an international twist, try using spices like cumin, coriander, or turmeric when preparing the chicken. You can also replace parsley with cilantro or basil for a different flavor.

In the end, exotic couscous with chicken and tropical flavors is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will turn any meal into a memorable feast. Enjoy and savor every bite!