Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a flavorful and comforting dish: maftoul with chicken. Maftoul, also known as Palestinian couscous, is larger and more textured than regular couscous, offering a delightful nutty flavor. Paired with tender chicken and aromatic spices, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're looking to explore Middle Eastern cuisine or simply want a hearty and satisfying meal, this recipe is for you. Let's get cooking!

What is Maftoul?

Before we jump into the recipe, let's talk a bit about what maftoul actually is. Maftoul, sometimes called Palestinian couscous, is a unique type of couscous that's hand-rolled from semolina and whole wheat flour. This traditional process gives it a larger size and a chewier texture compared to the instant couscous you might be used to. The name "maftoul" comes from the Arabic word for "rolled," which perfectly describes how it's made. The rolling process is often a communal activity, with women gathering to prepare large batches of maftoul for special occasions and everyday meals. The flavor of maftoul is subtly nutty and earthy, which makes it a fantastic base for absorbing the rich flavors of stews and sauces. It’s also incredibly versatile, pairing well with various meats, vegetables, and spices. In Palestinian cuisine, maftoul is often served with chicken, lamb, or chickpeas, and it’s seasoned with warming spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. If you're having trouble finding maftoul at your local grocery store, check out Middle Eastern specialty stores or online retailers. You can sometimes find it labeled as "giant couscous" or "Palestinian couscous." Once you've got your hands on it, get ready to experience a truly authentic and delicious dish. Trust me, guys, once you try maftoul, you'll be hooked! It's so much more interesting and flavorful than regular couscous, and it adds a wonderful texture to any meal. It’s a staple in many Middle Eastern homes, and for good reason – it’s both delicious and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our ingredients. For this maftoul with chicken recipe, you'll need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup maftoul (Palestinian couscous)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start cooking. Chopping the vegetables and measuring out the spices beforehand will make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable. Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. If you're not a fan of spicy food, you can skip the cayenne pepper altogether. Or, if you like a little extra heat, add a pinch more! The beauty of cooking is that you can customize it to suit your own taste preferences. Also, feel free to substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breast if you prefer. Just keep in mind that chicken breast can dry out more easily, so you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. And if you're vegetarian or vegan, you can easily adapt this recipe by using vegetable broth and adding more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless! So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let's get ready to create some culinary magic!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and start cooking this amazing maftoul with chicken dish. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you'll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time!

1. Sear the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear on all sides until lightly browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful base for your dish. Don't overcrowd the pot; sear the chicken in batches if necessary. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Remember, we're not cooking the chicken all the way through at this point, just browning it to add depth of flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. This is where the magic happens! The spices will bloom in the heat, releasing their aromatic oils and creating a beautiful foundation of flavor for the entire dish. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the seared chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become incredibly tender. Keep an eye on the liquid level and add a little more broth if needed to prevent the dish from drying out.
4. Add Maftoul and Chickpeas: Stir in the maftoul and chickpeas. Cover the pot and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the maftoul is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. The maftoul will plump up as it cooks, becoming wonderfully chewy and flavorful. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more chicken broth. If it seems too watery, remove the lid and let some of the excess liquid evaporate.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once the maftoul is cooked to perfection, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy! This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a side of warm pita bread for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Tips for the Perfect Maftoul

To ensure your maftoul with chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Use High-Quality Broth: The flavor of your broth will significantly impact the final dish. Opt for a good quality chicken broth or homemade broth for the best results. The broth is the liquid base of the entire dish, so using a flavorful broth will really elevate the overall taste. If you're using store-bought broth, look for low-sodium options to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Don't Overcook the Maftoul: Keep a close eye on the maftoul as it cooks. Overcooked maftoul can become mushy and lose its delightful chewy texture. Check for doneness after about 15 minutes and continue to cook until it's just tender.
• Adjust the Spices to Your Liking: Feel free to experiment with different spices and adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of paprika, or a sprinkle of dried mint for a unique twist. Don't be afraid to get creative and make the recipe your own!
• Make it Vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Chickpeas are a great source of protein, so they'll help make the dish more filling and satisfying.
• Make it Ahead: Maftoul with chicken is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld together even more as it sits, making it even more delicious! Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Variations and Additions

Want to spice things up? Here are some variations and additions you can try with your maftoul with chicken:

• Add Vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for added nutrients and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for extra heat.
• Use Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add Dried Fruit: Stir in some dried apricots, raisins, or cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
• Top with Nuts: Garnish with toasted almonds, pine nuts, or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Maftoul with chicken is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Serve with Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt adds a cooling contrast to the warm, spiced dish.
• Serve with Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the maftoul and soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Serve with a Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing side dish.
• Serve as a Side Dish: Maftoul with chicken can also be served as a flavorful side dish to grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy Your Homemade Maftoul!

There you have it! A step-by-step guide to making delicious maftoul with chicken. This recipe is a fantastic way to explore Middle Eastern flavors and create a hearty, satisfying meal for your family and friends. Don't be afraid to experiment with the spices and ingredients to make it your own. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so put on some music, grab a friend, and get ready to create something amazing. I hope you guys enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Bon appétit!