Save Tender chicken, pearl couscous, baby spinach, and tangy feta come together in this Creamy Greek Chicken & Pearl Couscous Bake. This comforting one-pan meal is brimming with Mediterranean flavor, offering a perfectly balanced weeknight dinner that is both hearty and refreshing.
Save The aroma of oregano and garlic fills the kitchen as this dish bakes, resulting in golden chicken and a creamy texture that the whole family will enjoy. It's a versatile recipe that brings a touch of Greece to your dining table with very little effort.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 500 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup (180 g) pearl couscous
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- ¾ cup (180 ml) whole milk
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup (75 g) crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup (20 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2
- In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- 3
- In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- 4
- Add pearl couscous and toast, stirring, for 2 minutes until lightly golden.
- 5
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, and lemon juice. Stir in chopped spinach, half of the feta, and all the Parmesan.
- 6
- Nestle the marinated chicken thighs on top of the couscous mixture.
- 7
- Transfer the skillet/dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C) and couscous is creamy and tender.
- 8
- Remove from oven. Sprinkle with remaining feta and fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the best results. Toasting the pearl couscous before adding the liquids is essential as it adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps the grains maintain their structure during the bake.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred, making sure to adjust the baking time as needed to prevent drying out. For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream with the milk, or stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives for extra Mediterranean flair.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty one-pan meal is best served with a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread to soak up the creamy lemon sauce. Garnish with additional fresh dill or parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Save With its combination of creamy textures and bright citrus notes, this Greek-inspired bake is a simple yet sophisticated solution for busy evenings. Enjoy a wholesome meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor from the comfort of your own home.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of couscous works best for this bake?
Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is ideal for this bake because it holds its texture well during cooking and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Its larger, pearl-like grains create a satisfying chewiness that regular couscous can't provide.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, breasts cook faster and may dry out more easily, so reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes and check for doneness earlier to prevent overcooking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the pearl couscous with a gluten-free variety. Many brands now offer gluten-free pearl couscous made from corn or rice flour. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly seasonings and broth, are certified gluten-free.
- → What can I serve with this bake?
A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and kalamata olives pairs perfectly. Crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce, roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or simple steamed green beans also make excellent sides.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The couscous mixture can be assembled in the baking dish and refrigerated for several hours before baking, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.