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Rose Harissa Chicken Couscous Salad

Rose Harissa Chicken Couscous Salad

Krysta
A vibrant and flavorful salad featuring tender chicken marinated in rose harissa, fluffy couscous, and creamy white beans, all brought together with a zesty chermoula-inspired dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cup chicken breast cubed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp rose harissa paste
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup couscous uncooked
  • 1.5 cup chicken or vegetable broth hot
  • 1 can white beans rinsed and drained
  • 0.5 cup cucumber diced
  • 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.25 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp cumin ground
  • 0.5 tsp paprika smoked
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, rose harissa paste, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked through and slightly browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • Place couscous in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot broth over the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
  • To make the Chermoula-inspired dressing, combine fresh cilantro, fresh parsley, minced garlic, 0.25 cup olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), 0.25 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper in a small bowl or food processor. Whisk or blend until well combined.
  • In a large serving bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cooked chicken, rinsed white beans, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
  • Pour the Chermoula-inspired dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.
  • Serve immediately, or chill for later enjoyment. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra crunch, add toasted almonds or pistachios. You can make the Chermoula dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tastes great served warm or cold, making it ideal for meal prep.
Keyword harissa chicken, couscous, white beans, chermoula, chicken salad, mediterranean recipe, easy dinner