Pearled Couscous with Chicken & Mixed Veggies Recipe

Introduction

Pearled couscous with chicken and mixed veggies is a quick, comforting meal that comes together in one pan. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy couscous, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 8 oz pearled couscous
• 2 cups Sprouts brand frozen mixed vegetables, defrosted
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp onion powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 Sprouts Deli rotisserie chicken (2-3 cups), diced

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and pearled couscous, then sauté until the couscous turns golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the mixed vegetables, chicken broth, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken broth is absorbed. Add extra broth if the couscous needs more liquid to cook through.
4. Step 4: While the couscous is cooking, remove the meat from the rotisserie chicken and dice it into bite-sized pieces.
5. Step 5: Once the couscous is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat and fold in the diced chicken.

Tips & Variations

• Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
• Swap mixed vegetables for fresh seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added freshness.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a bright finish.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a small amount of cream cheese or grated Parmesan before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular couscous instead of pearled couscous?

Regular couscous cooks faster and has a finer texture, so adjust cooking time accordingly. Pearled couscous (Israeli couscous) is larger and chewier, which gives a heartier bite to this dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken or substitute with chickpeas or tofu for protein.

Pearled Couscous with Chicken & Mixed Veggies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 81 reviews

A flavorful and easy-to-make pearled couscous dish combined with tender diced rotisserie chicken and a colorful mix of vegetables, all cooked together with savory spices for a wholesome weeknight meal.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 8 oz pearled couscous
• 2 cups Sprouts brand frozen mixed vegetables, defrosted
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp onion powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 Sprouts Deli rotisserie chicken (2–3 cups), diced

Instructions

1. Heat and Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and pearled couscous, sautéing until the couscous turns golden brown, about 5 minutes, which enhances its nutty flavor.
2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the defrosted mixed vegetables, chicken broth, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 8-10 minutes or until the chicken broth is mostly absorbed by the couscous and vegetables. If needed, add more broth to ensure it cooks through without drying out.
4. Prepare Chicken: While the couscous simmers, remove the meat from the rotisserie chicken, discarding the skin and bones, and dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Combine and Serve: Once the couscous has fully absorbed the broth and is tender, remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the diced rotisserie chicken, warming it through without overcooking. Serve hot.

Notes

• Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
• If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it lighter.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for added freshness.
• Ensure couscous is golden before adding liquids to maximize flavor.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and smoked paprika for a smoky depth.

Keywords: pearled couscous recipe, chicken couscous, mixed vegetable couscous, quick stovetop meal, rotisserie chicken recipes