Name: One-Pot Garlicky Chicken Thighs and Giant Couscous
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 large skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs; 1 unit onion, thinly sliced; 200 g cavolo nero (stalks finely chopped, leaves roughly chopped) (Can substitute with kale or Swiss chard); 5 cloves garlic, grated; 250 g giant couscous (Can substitute with regular couscous or quinoa for gluten-free); 1 small bunch parsley, finely chopped; 1 unit lemon (zested and juiced); 1 tbsp olive oil

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Embrace the Comfort of One-Pot Garlicky Chicken Thighs and Giant Couscous

As the days grow shorter and cooler, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting meal to bring everyone together around the dinner table. One-pot Garlicky Chicken Thighs and Giant Couscous is not just a dish; it’s a delightful way to simplify your cooking while indulging in rich, garlicky flavors. The crispy skin of the chicken combined with the chewy nuance of giant couscous creates a meal that feels special yet requires minimal cleanup—a total win during busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Reasons to Try It

Why settle for ordinary one-pot meals when you can elevate your dining experience effortlessly? This recipe stands out because it melds robust flavors with nourishing ingredients all in one go. The skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs promise juicy, tender meat, while the cavolo nero and giant couscous offer a wonderful texture contrast, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

"This is a family favorite! The garlic is divine, and I love how everything comes together in just one pot!" – A satisfied home cook.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even for impressing guests at a small gathering. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also quick to prepare—thanks to the one-pot method. Plus, the medley of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step-by-Step Overview

Creating One-pot Garlicky Chicken Thighs and Giant Couscous is a straightforward process that guarantees a delicious result. Here’s how it unfolds:

Start by browning the chicken thighs until the skin is perfectly crisp.
Sauté the vegetables, letting their flavors meld together.
Stir in the giant couscous and add water to create a savory base.
Nestle the chicken back in and let the oven work its magic.

Let’s dive into the specifics!

What You’ll Need

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

4 large skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
1 onion, thinly sliced
200g cavolo nero (stalks finely chopped, leaves roughly chopped)
5 garlic cloves, grated
250g giant couscous
Small bunch of parsley, finely chopped
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 tbsp olive oil

Substitutions:
If you can’t find cavolo nero, kale or Swiss chard works beautifully too. You can also swap giant couscous for regular couscous or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Directions to Follow

Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.
Sear Them: Place the thighs skin-side down in a wide, ovenproof frying pan over medium-low heat. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and chopped cavolo stalks. Season them lightly and cook for 8-10 minutes until beginning to soften.
Add Garlic and Greens: Stir in the grated garlic and the cavolo nero leaves. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate the Couscous: Add the giant couscous along with 675ml of cold water. Stir well, season to taste, and bring to a boil.
Nestle the Chicken: Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up.
Bake: Transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 200C (180C fan or gas 6) and let it cook for 18-20 minutes.
Prepare the Dressing: While it’s baking, mix the chopped parsley with the lemon zest, juice, and olive oil, then season.
Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then drizzle with the dressing and enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This dish is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a few thoughtful serving suggestions! Consider serving it with a light arugula salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a comforting twist, pair it with warm crusty bread to soak up the garlicky juices.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Store any uneaten chicken and couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it back in a warm oven or microwave until heated through—ensure that the internal temperature reaches 75C (165F) for safe consumption.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For optimal results, here are a few cooking tips:

When searing the chicken, avoid flipping it too early; let it fry undisturbed until the skin is crispy.
Chop the cavolo stalks finely to allow them to soften evenly with the onion.
If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

Spice it Up: Add smoked paprika or cumin for a warming depth of flavor.
Vegetables Galore: Toss in seasonal veggies like peas or asparagus for a pop of color and nutrition.
Citrus Burst: Swap lemon for orange to bring a different citrus flair to the dressing.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and rewarding meal.

2. Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts can work, though you’ll want to adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain juicy.

3. What are optimal storage methods?
Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month; just reheat thoroughly before serving.

With all these tips and details, you’re set to create a stunning meal that’s sure to impress—and comfort! Enjoy this delightful one-pot wonder with your family and friends; they won’t be able to resist the garlicky goodness!