Couscous with wings and cheese

Couscous with Chicken Wings and Cheese – A Delicious and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

A Brief Introduction to the World of Couscous

Couscous is a versatile ingredient that has gained popularity due to its fine texture and ability to absorb flavors. Becoming a favorite in many kitchens, couscous comes from a long-standing cooking tradition, appreciated for its quick preparation and versatility. This recipe for couscous with chicken wings and cheese is perfect for a hearty dinner full of flavor that will impress anyone.

Ingredients

- 6 chicken wings
- 250 g couscous (preferably large grain)
- 400 ml chicken broth (you can use homemade broth or a chicken stock cube)
- 200 g peeled tomatoes (in juice)
- 1-2 tablespoons dried or freshly chopped basil
- 200 g cheese (sliced thinly)
- Butter or olive oil for greasing the dish

Necessary Utensils

- Baking dish or oven-safe dish
- Pot for broth (if making broth at home)
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven rack

Step by Step for Perfect Couscous

Step 1: Preparing the Dish

Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Choose a baking dish or oven-safe dish and generously grease it with butter or olive oil. This step will not only prevent sticking but will also add a bit of flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the Couscous

Place the couscous in the prepared dish. Pour the hot chicken broth over it. It is important for the broth to be hot, as this will help the couscous swell properly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the oven for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Wings

Meanwhile, prepare the chicken wings. Blanch them quickly in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain. Season them with salt, pepper, and if desired, add a bit of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. Arrange the wings in a dish (without oil) so they brown evenly. Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally until they become golden and crispy.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

After the couscous has been in the oven, remove it and gently fluff it with a fork to aerate. Place the browned wings on top of the couscous, then add the diced peeled tomatoes. Sprinkle the chopped basil evenly over the mixture.

Step 5: Finishing the Recipe

Place the slices of cheese on top of the wings and couscous, covering everything evenly. Put the dish back in the oven and leave it until the cheese melts and becomes deliciously golden, about 10-15 minutes.

Serving and Suggestions

After the dish is ready, you can serve it directly from the dish, garnished with a bit of fresh basil for an appealing look. It is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or a mixed vegetable salad for a crunchy contrast. A glass of white wine or a fresh lemonade will perfectly complement this meal.

Tips and Tricks

1. Choosing Couscous: Large grain couscous is ideal for absorbing flavors. Try different types of couscous to discover which you like best.

2. Crispy Wings: Make sure the wings are well-dried before cooking to achieve a crispy appearance.

3. Variations: If you want to add more flavor, you can include roasted vegetables (such as zucchini or bell peppers) in the couscous mixture, or you can use feta cheese instead of cheese.

4. Cooling: If you have leftover couscous, you can store it in the fridge and use it the next day, adding a bit of olive oil and lemon to revitalize its flavor.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken wings and contains complex carbohydrates from the couscous, making it a balanced choice for a hearty dinner. Each serving contains approximately:

- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! You can replace the chicken wings with diced chicken breast or turkey meat.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier? Add a bit of chili or hot pepper sauce to the marinade for the wings.

3. Is the recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using fried tofu or grilled vegetables instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

This recipe for couscous with chicken wings and cheese is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. With accessible ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, each step will bring you closer to a savory dish that will surely be enjoyed. So get ready to impress with your culinary skills! Bon appétit!