Name: Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons butter; 2 fillets chicken breast (pounded and cut into strips); ¼ cup honey; 4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; to taste salt and pepper (to season); 15 ml olive oil; ½ teaspoon crushed garlic; ½ each yellow pepper (finely chopped); 1 each red onion (finely chopped); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; to taste black pepper (to season); 2 cups cooked couscous; a handful chopped basil

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When I think of comfort food, Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous instantly comes to mind. It’s one of those dishes that can turn an ordinary weeknight into something special. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of melting butter and sweet honey filled my kitchen, making my family gather around, curious and excited. I love how the flavors mingle together, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory that’s just irresistible. This recipe doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it brings us together at the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. Every bite of tender chicken paired with fluffy couscous feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
520 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Skillet

What Sets This Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous Apart

It’s a Family Favorite

One of the best things about Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is how it becomes an instant favorite in every household. Children and adults alike can’t resist the sweet and tangy flavor profile. It’s a dish that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Once you serve it, you’ll likely hear requests for it again and again.

Quick and Easy to Make

Let’s face it, we all have busy lives, and cooking shouldn’t add to the stress. Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is a breeze to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for those weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Ingredients

This recipe features a fantastic blend of ingredients that work harmoniously. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a rich glaze that coats the chicken beautifully. Plus, the addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only adds flavor but also boosts nutrition. You can even customize the veggies based on what you have on hand!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for a cozy night in, Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous fits the bill. It can be served as an elegant entrée for guests or a comforting meal for your family. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a showstopper, and it’s bound to impress anyone who tries it.

Easily Scalable

If you’re expecting more guests, it’s easy to scale this recipe up. Doubling the ingredients is straightforward, and you won’t sacrifice flavor. Prepare it for a larger crowd without any complicated adjustments, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this delightful dish.

Leftovers Are Delicious

One of my favorite parts about making Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is enjoying the leftovers. The flavors meld together even more overnight, creating an even tastier meal for lunch the next day. Just reheat, and you’ll have a satisfying dish ready to go.

What You Need for Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous

The ingredients for Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous come together to create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also balanced. The harmony of sweet honey, rich butter, and savory soy sauce creates an unforgettable glaze for the chicken. Combined with fresh vegetables and fluffy couscous, this meal represents everything I cherish about cooking: simplicity and satisfaction.

5 tablespoons butter – This is the base for sautéing the chicken, providing a rich flavor and a beautiful golden color.
2 chicken breast fillets – Lean and tender, these fillets are the star of the dish, absorbing all the delicious sauces.
¼ cup honey – Adds a natural sweetness, balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce.
4 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce – Provides a savory depth, making the dish irresistibly tasty.
Salt and pepper to season – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
15 ml olive oil – Helps sauté the vegetables without sticking.
½ teaspoon crushed garlic – Adds aromatic flavor, making the dish even more delightful.
Half a yellow pepper – Fresh and crunchy, it brings color and sweetness.
1 red onion – Offers a slightly sweet flavor and a beautiful hue to the dish.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Infuses a warm, smoky flavor that rounds out the taste.
2 cups cooked couscous – A perfect base, fluffy and light, absorbing all the flavors.
A handful of chopped basil – Adds a burst of freshness and color to the finished plate.

Putting Together Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous

Cooking Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Here’s how you can create this delicious meal step-by-step, ensuring every flavor shines through.

Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. As it begins to foam, add the chicken fillets. You’ll want to hear a satisfying sizzle as the meat touches the hot pan. Cook them until they’re golden brown, usually about five to seven minutes per side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring they’re perfectly cooked.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, pour in the honey and soy sauce. Stir these together, letting them bubble and thicken slightly, which should only take a couple of minutes. This mixture will create a sticky glaze that’s rich in flavor.
Now, let’s prepare the vegetables. In another pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic, yellow pepper, and red onion. Sauté these for about five minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. The vibrant colors will brighten your kitchen!
Season the mixture with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine. The spices will elevate the flavors and add an extra dimension to the dish.
Next, add the sautéed vegetables to the cooked couscous. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the couscous is well mixed with the colorful veggies.
Finally, return the glazed chicken to the pan with the couscous mixture. Sprinkle in the chopped basil and stir gently, coating everything evenly with the delicious sauce.
To serve, plate the couscous mixture first, then top it with the chicken strips. This presentation not only looks beautiful but also allows the glaze to shine.
Enjoy your Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous with family or friends, sharing laughter and creating wonderful memories around the table.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t overcook the chicken: It’s crucial to monitor the chicken while it cooks. Overcooking can lead to dry meat. Aim for a golden exterior and ensure the interior reaches 165 degrees.
Customize the vegetables: Feel free to swap the yellow pepper and onion for other vegetables like zucchini or snap peas, based on your preferences.
Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Use homemade couscous: If time permits, making your own couscous from scratch can enhance the flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

Every dish comes with its own set of tips to ensure success. Here are useful tips for making Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous a hit every time.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and couscous separately for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
Meal Prep: Make extra portions during meal prep days for easy lunches. Just pack them in individual containers.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh take on the dish.

Best Served With

Serving Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous can be a delightful experience. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Fresh Salads: A side of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the dish.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as carrots or green beans add a colorful touch to the plate.
Perfect for Dinner Parties: This dish makes a lovely centerpiece for dinner gatherings, sure to impress your guests.
Comforting Lunch: Leftovers make for a hearty lunch, providing a satisfying meal that keeps you energized for the day.
Festive Occasions: Serve it during special celebrations for a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.

FAQ

The key to perfect chicken in Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is cooking it on medium heat until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. If you prefer a healthier option, you can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.

Absolutely! One of the best things about Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is its versatility. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, snap peas, or even carrots would make great additions, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep them tender yet crisp.

To make Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous healthier, consider reducing the amount of butter used or substituting it with a healthier oil like avocado oil. Additionally, you can add more vegetables to increase the fiber content and adjust the amount of honey used to control the sugar level.

This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. A fresh green salad makes an excellent pairing, as does a side of steamed vegetables. You might also consider serving it with roasted potatoes or a light soup for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Soy and Honey Chicken with Couscous is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a comforting meal. It’s perfect for any occasion, be it a busy weeknight or a special gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and joy to every dinner table.