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Creamy Chicken and Pearl Couscous

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Creamy Chicken and Pearl Couscous is a comforting one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken, soft pearl couscous, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for an easy yet satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup pearl couscous
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the pearl couscous and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. If using spinach, stir it in and allow it to wilt.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the couscous. Spoon sauce over the top.
  8. Simmer for 3–5 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • Rotisserie chicken can be used to save time.
  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the creamy sauce.
  • Add extra broth or cream when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/creamy-chicken-and-pearl-couscous/