Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers with Lemon Couscous Recipe

December 17, 2023

Are you looking for a new and exciting recipe to add to your dinner rotation? Look no further than Moroccan spiced chicken skewers with lemon couscous! This dish is full of bold flavors and textures, making it a standout and satisfying meal. In this article, we will guide you through every step of the recipe, from choosing the right chicken to pairing it with the perfect sauce.

Table of Contents

How to Make Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers with Lemon Couscous: A Step-by-Step Guide

First, gather your ingredients. For the chicken skewers, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, red bell peppers, red onions, and skewers. For the marinade, you will need olive oil, cumin, paprika, coriander, garlic, salt, and pepper. For the lemon couscous, you will need Israeli couscous, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.

Start by cutting your chicken into 1-inch cubes. Then, make your marinade by mixing all of the ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

While your chicken marinates, prepare your vegetables. Cut the bell peppers and onions into 1-inch pieces. Thread the chicken and vegetables alternately onto the skewers, being careful not to overcrowd them.

Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are slightly charred.

In the meantime, prepare your lemon couscous according to the package directions. Substitute chicken broth for water for added flavor. Once it is cooked, fluff the couscous with a fork and add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley.

Plate your skewers and couscous, and serve immediately.

If you want to add some extra flavor to your chicken skewers, you can try adding some harissa paste to the marinade. Harissa is a North African spice paste made from chili peppers, garlic, and other spices. It adds a spicy, smoky flavor to the chicken that pairs well with the other spices in the marinade.

Another great side dish to serve with your Moroccan spiced chicken skewers is a simple cucumber and tomato salad. To make the salad, chop up some cucumbers and tomatoes and toss them with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. It’s a refreshing and light side dish that complements the bold flavors of the chicken and couscous.

The Origins of Moroccan Spices and How They Elevate This Chicken Skewer Dish

Moroccan cuisine is known for its complex and flavorful spice blends, which often include cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, and ginger. These warm and fragrant spices add depth and complexity to the marinade for this chicken dish, making it a standout meal.

The use of spices in Moroccan cuisine dates back centuries, with influences from various cultures and regions. The Berbers, who are indigenous to North Africa, used spices in their cooking for medicinal purposes and to enhance the flavor of their food. Later, Arab and Andalusian traders brought new spices to the region, which were incorporated into Moroccan cuisine.

Today, Moroccan spices are an essential part of the country’s culinary identity and are used in a variety of dishes, from tagines to couscous. The combination of spices used in this chicken skewer dish is just one example of how Moroccan cuisine has evolved over time, while still staying true to its roots.

The Best Type of Chicken to Use for Skewers and Why

For this recipe, it is best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are lean and tender, and they hold up well when skewered and grilled. If you prefer a darker meat, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

It is important to note that when using chicken for skewers, it is best to cut the meat into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Additionally, marinating the chicken beforehand can add extra flavor and help keep the meat moist during grilling. Some popular marinade options for chicken skewers include teriyaki, lemon herb, and spicy garlic.

Tips for Marinating Chicken Overnight for Maximum Flavor

If you have the time, marinating the chicken in the fridge overnight will result in maximum flavor. Make sure to use a non-reactive container, such as glass or ceramic, so that the acidic components of the marinade do not react with the container and affect the flavor of the chicken.

Another tip for marinating chicken overnight is to make sure that the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. This can be achieved by placing the chicken and marinade in a resealable plastic bag and squeezing out any excess air before sealing it. Additionally, you can use a fork to poke small holes in the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat.

Choosing the Right Vegetables to Accompany Your Chicken Skewers

Red bell peppers and red onions are a perfect complement to the warm flavors of the Moroccan spice blend. They also add a beautiful pop of color to the skewers. You can also try other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, if you prefer.

If you’re looking for a vegetable with a milder flavor, consider using yellow squash or eggplant. These vegetables will still add color to your skewers, but won’t overpower the flavors of the chicken and spices. Additionally, if you want to add some sweetness to your skewers, try adding pineapple chunks or cherry tomatoes.

Perfecting the Art of Skewering: Tips for Assembling Your Skewers

When skewering your chicken and vegetables, it is important to space them out evenly so that they cook evenly. Make sure to also soak your skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling them, to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Another important tip for assembling your skewers is to choose ingredients that have similar cooking times. For example, if you are using shrimp and beef, you may want to skewer them separately or cook them on separate skewers to ensure that they are both cooked to perfection. Additionally, consider marinating your ingredients before skewering them to add extra flavor and tenderness to your dish.

Techniques for Grilling Your Skewers to Perfection: How Long to Cook Each Side

Grill your skewers over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are slightly charred. If you are using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the chicken should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s important to soak your skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. You can also brush your skewers with oil to prevent sticking and add extra flavor. Another tip is to marinate your chicken and vegetables for at least 30 minutes before skewering to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.

Making the Perfect Lemon Couscous: A Guide to Fluffy and Flavorful Couscous

When making lemon couscous, use Israeli couscous instead of regular couscous for added texture and flavor. Also, substitute chicken broth for water for added depth of flavor. Once it is cooked, fluff the couscous with a fork and add lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley for added flavor.

Another tip for making perfect lemon couscous is to add some toasted pine nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture. You can also add some raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy flavor. Just make sure to soak them in hot water for a few minutes before adding them to the couscous.

If you want to make a complete meal out of your lemon couscous, you can add some grilled chicken or shrimp on top. You can also mix in some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a healthy and flavorful dish. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on top for a finishing touch.

Pairing Your Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers with the Perfect Sauce or Dip

This dish pairs perfectly with a tangy yogurt sauce or a spicy harissa dip. To make a simple yogurt sauce, mix plain Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and salt. For a spicier option, mix harissa paste with lemon juice and olive oil.

If you’re looking for a more refreshing option, try pairing your Moroccan spiced chicken skewers with a cucumber and mint yogurt dip. Simply mix diced cucumber, chopped fresh mint, and plain Greek yogurt together, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions: How to Plate and Present Your Dish

Plate your skewers and couscous on a large platter or individual plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for added freshness. Serve immediately.

If you want to add some extra flavor to your dish, you can drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the skewers and couscous. This will give your dish a tangy and savory taste that will complement the flavors of the ingredients.

For a more elegant presentation, you can use decorative plates and arrange the skewers and couscous in a symmetrical pattern. You can also add some edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and texture to your dish.

Variations on the Recipe: Experimenting with Different Spices and Ingredients

Feel free to experiment with other spice blends and vegetables for this dish. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Additionally, you can try adding some nuts or seeds for extra crunch and flavor. Cashews, almonds, or sesame seeds would all be great options. You could also try using different types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice, to add some variety to the dish.

How to Store Leftovers Properly for Meal Prep or Future Meals

If you have leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill before serving.

When storing leftover soups or stews, it’s best to divide them into smaller portions and store them in individual containers. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need and prevents the rest from going bad. Additionally, make sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in the fridge.

If you have leftover cooked rice, it’s important to store it properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the fridge. It’s best to consume the rice within 2-3 days, and make sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating.

Health Benefits of Eating Moroccan Spiced Chicken Skewers with Lemon Couscous

This dish is a healthy and balanced meal, packed with lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight.

In conclusion, Moroccan spiced chicken skewers with lemon couscous is a flavor-packed and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. With our step-by-step guide and tips, you can make this recipe with confidence and impress your friends and family. Enjoy!

One of the key ingredients in this dish is the Moroccan spice blend, which is a combination of flavorful spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. These spices not only add delicious flavor to the dish, but they also have numerous health benefits. For example, cumin has been shown to aid in digestion and improve blood sugar control, while coriander has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Another great thing about this recipe is that it is easy to customize to your liking. You can swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp to make it vegetarian or pescatarian-friendly, or add in extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more fiber and nutrients. Plus, the lemon couscous is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which can provide sustained energy throughout the day.