Mediterranean Chicken Couscous

If you've never made couscous, now is your time to try! Couscous is made from something called semolina, which is the same ingredient that is found in pasta. It can be purchased right at your local grocery store, usually in the rice aisle. It's a great alternative to pasta or rice as a side dish. Or, like this recipe, you can make it as a main dish. And it's surprisingly easy to prepare. Try it, you'll like it!

This recipe is a favorite in our house because not only does it taste great, but it is unbelievably quick and easy. Expect it to take you only about 20 minutes to prepare. It's also healthy, with only about 200 calories per serving. The great thing is you can serve this cold on a hot summer day if you desire. I prefer warm because I love the cheese to be soft and the chicken to be warm. Use two large chicken breasts in this, or substitute a rotisserie chicken. Fresh basil, which the recipe calls for, works best. Or, you can substitute 4 teaspoons of dried basil.



Mediterranean Chicken Couscous
(adapted from Cooking Light)

1 1/4 cups low-sodium fat-free chicken broth
1 (5.6 oz.) package toasted pine nut couscous mix
3 cups chopped cooked chicken (about 2 large chicken breasts)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 (4 oz.) package crumbled feta cheese
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. grated lemon rind
1/4 teaspoon pepper

1. Heat broth and seasoning packet from couscous in the microwave on high for 3 to 5 minutes or until broth begins to boil. Place couscous in a large bowl, and stir in broth mixture. Cover and let stand 5 minutes.

2. Fluff couscous with a fork; stir in chicken and next 6 ingredients. Serve warm or cold. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.