Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe Apricot Preserves

Moroccan cuisine is famous for its bold, warming spices and unique sweet-savory balance. And this traditional Moroccan chicken couscous recipe with apricot preserves delivers just that. The tender chicken pieces, combined with aromatic spices, soft couscous, and sweet apricot preserves, make this dish a cozy and flavorful meal. With its layers of spice, tender vegetables, and touch of sweetness, this Moroccan couscous recipe is as exciting to eat as it is comforting.

Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe Apricot Preserves

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: MoroccanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

400

kcal

Moroccan chicken couscous combines aromatic spices with apricot preserves for a dish rich in sweet, savory, and warming flavors.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs: 1 lb (cut into pieces)
Olive oil: 2 tbsp
Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
Onion: 1 large (chopped)
Cumin: 1 tsp
Cinnamon: ½ tsp
Paprika: 1 tsp
Ground ginger: 1 tsp
Couscous: 1 cup (uncooked)
Chicken broth: 1 cup
Apricot preserves: ½ cup
Chickpeas: 1 cup (cooked)
Carrots: 2 large (sliced)
Zucchini: 1 (sliced)
Salt and pepper: to taste
Chopped fresh parsley: for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add garlic and onions, cooking until onions are translucent.
Season the Chicken: Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and ginger. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the carrots, zucchini, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
Incorporate Apricot Preserves: Stir in apricot preserves, letting it melt into the broth for a subtle sweetness.
Prepare Couscous: Steam the Couscous grains three times. Between each steam, add ½ to 1 cup of cold water and 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter if desired. Use your fingers to separate any lumps and fluff the couscous.
Serve: Fluff the couscous with a fork and plate, topping with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken holds moisture better.
Add Raisins for Extra Sweetness: Traditional Moroccan dishes often include dried fruits like raisins.

Tips for a Traditional Moroccan Chicken Couscous Recipe

Low and Slow Cooking: Simmer for rich flavor, allowing spices to meld.
Layer Spices: Moroccan cuisine relies on aromatic spices—don’t skimp on them!
Customize Vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables to complement the chicken and couscous.

Recipe Variants

Vegetarian Couscous: Substitute chicken with extra chickpeas and a mix of vegetables.
Spicy Chicken Couscous: Add a pinch of cayenne or Moroccan harissa for added heat.
Moroccan Chicken Tagine: Something different and will make you travel with the Moroccan spices.

FAQ

Can I use different meat for this recipe?

Yes! Lamb or beef are also excellent with Moroccan spices and couscous.

Can I use dried apricots instead of apricot preserves?

Absolutely. Chop them and add a little extra broth to balance the thickness.

Is there a way to make couscous fluffy?

Fluff it with a fork after it absorbs water and avoid overcooking.

For another delicious dish, try our Chicken Mushroom Potatoes with Rosemary Crock Pot Recipe for an easy, comforting meal that’s full of earthy flavors.

This Moroccan chicken couscous is a celebration of flavor and tradition. The balance between the spices and the apricot preserves brings a delicious twist, turning this simple chicken couscous into a flavorful dish. This traditional Moroccan chicken couscous recipe with apricot preserves brings unique flavor profiles to your table, making it ideal for family dinners or special gatherings. Serve it with a side of fresh Moroccan bread or a fresh green salad for a meal that’s wholesome and satisfying. Enjoy this recipe for a taste of Morocco in your own kitchen!