July 14, 2026 · 10 min

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Pearl Couscous and Zucchini

Lunch10 min2481 cal / serving

This Mediterranean-inspired dinner is all about building your perfect bowl. Tender chicken thighs seasoned with oregano and garlic pair beautifully with fluffy pearl couscous and roasted zucchini. A bright tomato salad and creamy garlic sauce tie everything together, while fresh dill and crunchy almonds add the finishing touches.

Set everything out family-style so everyone can customize their plate. Whether you pile on the couscous or load up on veggies, this meal is as flexible as it is delicious. Add a side of warm pita or rice for even more options!

Recipe details

Lunch10 min2481 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories2481 kcalProtein95.4 gFat212.5 gCarbs42.5 gSugar6.6 gFiber5 gSodium547 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: containsSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.

Ingredients

Sour Cream1.5 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Israeli Couscous1 cup Israeli CouscousView ingredient guide
Zucchini1 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guide
Lemon1 unit LemonView ingredient guide
Mayonnaise2 tablespoon MayonnaiseView ingredient guide
Tomato1 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Dried Oregano0.5 teaspoon Dried OreganoView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Dill0.25 ounce DillView ingredient guide
Sliced Almonds0.5 ounce Sliced AlmondsView ingredient guide
Olive Oil1 teaspoon (tsp) Olive OilView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil2 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Adjust an oven rack to the top position and preheat to 450°F. Wash and dry all produce. Trim the zucchini and slice crosswise into ½-inch rounds. Dice the tomato into ¼-inch pieces. Quarter the lemon. Roughly chop the dill.
  2. On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini rounds with a drizzle of oil, salt and pepper. Roast on the top rack until lightly browned and tender, 14-16 minutes.
  3. While the zucchini roasts, combine the couscous, chicken stock concentrates and 1½ cups water in a small pot (use 3 cups water for 4 servings). Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a low simmer. Cook until tender, 8-10 minutes. Keep covered off heat until ready to serve.
  4. Open the package of diced chicken and drain off any excess liquid. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, half the oregano (use all for 4 servings), half the garlic powder, a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, 4-6 minutes.
  5. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomato, juice from half the lemon, a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. In another small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream and remaining garlic powder. Add water 1 teaspoon at a time until the sauce reaches a drizzling consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve the roasted zucchini, couscous, chicken, tomato salad, garlic sauce, dill, almonds and remaining lemon wedges family-style. Let everyone build their own bowl. Add hot sauce if desired.

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, toast the couscous in a dry pot before adding water.

If you like spice, serve with your favorite hot sauce.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of dark meat?

Yes, but dark meat stays juicier. If using breast, reduce cooking time slightly to avoid drying out.

What can I substitute for Israeli couscous?

Regular couscous, quinoa or orzo work well. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.

How do I make the garlic sauce thicker?

Use less water when thinning the sauce or add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise.

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