Elevate your dinner with this flavorful Wine-Poached Chicken with Charmoula. Tender chicken poached in white wine and served with a vibrant North African-inspired charmoula sauce is paired with perfectly spiced couscous for a complete meal. This dish offers a balance of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and warming spices, making it a fantastic option for a special dinner.
Wine-Poached Chicken with Charmoula
Course: MainCuisine: North African4
servings15
minutes25
minutes400
kcalIngredients
For the Chicken:
2 cups dry white wine
4 whole sprigs of fresh cilantro
6 whole black peppercorns
Two 8-ounce whole chicken breasts
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Charmoula:
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon minced garlic
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
1/3 cup tomato juice
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
For the Couscous:
1 1/2 cups chicken stock, or low-sodium canned, fat skimmed
1 cup couscous
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Directions
- Poach the Chicken: In a medium saucepan, combine white wine, cilantro sprigs, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer. Add the chicken breasts and poach gently for 12-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Charmoula: In a small bowl, whisk together cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir in the chopped parsley, tomato juice, cilantro leaves, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Cook the Couscous: In a small saucepan, bring chicken stock and turmeric to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Assemble the Dish: Slice the poached chicken and serve it atop the couscous. Spoon the charmoula over the chicken and garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
This Wine-Poached Chicken with Charmoula is a perfect harmony of tender chicken, zesty charmoula sauce, and fluffy couscous. With a delightful blend of spices and fresh herbs, this dish is a great choice for those looking to explore bold, refreshing flavors in a healthy and satisfying meal.
