Honey Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Couscous and Feta
This dish combines sweet and tangy honey-balsamic grilled chicken with a refreshing couscous salad, finished with crumbled feta. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired meal that feels light yet satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dijon mustard
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Couscous Salad
1 ½ cups couscous
1 ½ cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup Kalamata olives, halved
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Dressing for Couscous Salad
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp red wine vinegar
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken
In a bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
2. Grill the chicken
Preheat grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Cook the couscous
Bring broth to a boil, stir in couscous, cover, and remove from heat.
After 5 minutes, fluff with a fork.
4. Make couscous salad
In a bowl, combine couscous, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, parsley, and mint.
Whisk dressing ingredients, pour over, and toss well.
Fold in feta just before serving.
5. Assemble
Serve sliced grilled chicken over couscous salad.
Drizzle any extra marinade (boiled briefly to cook if desired) or a squeeze of lemon on top.
Notes & Tips
Meal prep: Chicken and couscous can be made ahead. Store separately and add feta fresh.
Extra flavor: Add roasted red peppers or artichokes to the couscous salad.
Alternative protein: Works with salmon, shrimp, or tofu too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
Q: Can I use pearl couscous (Israeli couscous)?
A: Definitely—just cook it like pasta until tender, then toss with salad ingredients.
Q: How long does it keep?
A: Up to 3 days in the fridge; best enjoyed fresh for flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 470
Protein: 39g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 38g
Fiber: 4g