One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and fuss-free meal, this One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. Imagine juicy chicken thighs seared to golden perfection, nestled into a creamy bed of couscous, combined with the smoky crunch of bacon and the sweet pop of corn. It’s a dish that feels cozy and indulgent but comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Every forkful sings with comforting layers of texture and flavor, perfect for any night of the week or when you want to wow guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the magic of this One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn Recipe, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each carefully selected to provide rich flavors and satisfying textures. From savory chicken and smoky bacon to fresh thyme and bright lemon, these essentials work together beautifully to transform a humble meal into something spectacular.

• ¾ cup original Moroccan-style couscous: This quick-cooking grain is the base, soaking up all the rich flavors for a fluffy, tender texture.
• 6 chicken thighs (bone-in with skin preferred): They retain juiciness and add deep, savory meatiness for the dish.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other ingredient’s flavors.
• 8 slices bacon (½-inch pieces, divided): Adds smoky, crispy crunch and renders flavorful fat for cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Balances richness and helps brown the chicken and aromatics evenly.
• 1 medium sweet yellow onion (minced): Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• 6 cloves garlic (whole but peeled): Infuses the dish with subtle pungency and warmth.
• 2½ cups heavy cream or half and half: Provides luscious creaminess that coats the couscous perfectly. Milk can be a substitute but curdles more easily.
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme: Introduces woodsy freshness to every bite.
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves: For a more intense herbaceous flavor near the end.
• 2 cups frozen corn (thawed): Brings a sweet crunch and vibrant color contrast.
• 1 lemon (half for cooking, half for garnish): Brightens the dish with fresh citrus notes.
• 2 radishes (very thinly sliced): For a peppery crunch garnish that adds a pop of color.
• Extra crisped bacon: Used as topping to bring a satisfying texture at the end.
• Chopped parsley: A fresh green garnish that adds brightness and an herbal punch.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Finishing touch to lift all the flavors.

How to Make One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Couscous

Start by cooking the couscous according to the package directions. This quick step is the foundation for your dish, creating fluffy grains that will absorb all the delicious flavors later on.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Generously season your chicken thighs on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple application ensures each bite is perfectly flavorful and juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the bacon pieces just until they’re lightly browned and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet. This fat will add depth and richness when cooking the rest of the dish.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Heat over medium until shimmering, then place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Brown the chicken until golden on top, then transfer them onto another paper towel-lined plate to rest. This step locks in juices and adds beautiful color.

Step 5: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Using the same skillet, add the minced onion and whole garlic cloves. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic softens, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 6: Toast the Couscous

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the cooked couscous. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly, so the couscous develops a slight golden crust and extra nuttiness.

Step 7: Add Cream, Herbs, and Bacon

Pour in the heavy cream along with the fresh thyme sprigs, kosher salt, black pepper, and all but 2 tablespoons of the crisped bacon. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring to combine the flavors.

Step 8: Cook the Chicken in the Creamy Mixture

Nestle the browned chicken thighs skin-side up into the creamy couscous mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let everything simmer together for 30 minutes. This slow cooking makes the chicken tender and infuses the couscous with the milky, savory sauce.

Step 9: Finish with Corn, Thyme, and Lemon

Stir in the thawed corn kernels and minced fresh thyme leaves, then drizzle the juice from half a lemon over the top. Cover once more and cook until the liquid nearly evaporates, about 15 to 20 minutes. The sweet corn adds bursts of freshness, while the lemon juice brightens the entire dish.

How to Serve One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn Recipe

Garnishes

Garnish each serving with thinly sliced radishes, the reserved crispy bacon bits, chopped parsley, and an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The radishes add a peppery crunch and vibrant color, while fresh parsley brings brightness and a fragrant finish. The lemon juice ties everything together with a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

This dish can stand proudly on its own, but if you want to complement it, serve with a simple green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A chilled cucumber salad or garlicky sautéed greens would elevate the meal without overpowering the richness of the couscous and chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the couscous and chicken family-style right from the skillet, inviting everyone to gather around and share. Alternatively, plate individual portions with extra garnish arranged artfully on top, adding vibrant pops of color that make the dish feel festive and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, making the leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to cool the dish before refrigerating.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender and prevent the cream from separating. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer white meat, but thighs are recommended for their extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out the breasts.

Is it okay to use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use milk, but it may curdle during cooking and result in a thinner sauce. Half and half is a better substitute if you want to lighten the dish without compromising creaminess.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative, keeping in mind it will slightly change the flavor profile but still taste delicious.

What’s the best way to crisp the bacon?

Cook bacon over medium heat until just browned and crisp but not overdone. Removing some of the fat before cooking the chicken prevents the dish from becoming greasy while still imparting great flavor.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Fresh corn works wonderfully in this recipe! Just cut kernels off the cob and add them during the final cooking step for a sweet, fresh pop that complements the creamy couscous beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Couscous Chicken with Bacon and Corn Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves hearty, soulful meals with minimal fuss. The interplay of creamy couscous, tender chicken, smoky bacon, and sweet corn creates a dish packed with flavor and texture that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe your own and enjoy the joyful simplicity it brings to your table.

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