πβ¨ A hearty and flavorful blend of sweet, savory, and warm spices, this Greek Chicken & Spiced Pear Couscous Salad is as nourishing as it is delicious. Tender Greek-spiced chicken is served over pearl couscous tossed with roasted spiced pears, tart cranberries, peppery arugula, and crunchy toasted pecans. A creamy cinnamon yogurt dressing brings it all together for a balanced and satisfying meal. πΏβ¨
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π§Ύ Ingredients (Serves 2β3)
π Greek-Spiced Chicken
β’ 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
β’ 1 tbsp olive oil
β’ 1 tsp dried oregano
β’ 1 clove garlic, minced π§
β’ Salt & pepper to taste
β’ Juice of Β½ lemon π
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π₯ Couscous Salad Base
β’ 1 cup pearl couscous
β’ 2 medium pears, cored and sliced π
β’ 1 tbsp olive oil
β’ Β½ tsp ground cinnamon
β’ Β½ tsp smoked paprika
β’ ΒΌ cup dried cranberries
β’ 2 cups arugula
β’ 2 tbsp toasted pecans, chopped
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π₯£ Cinnamon Yogurt Sauce
β’ Β½ cup plain Greek yogurt
β’ 1 tsp honey π―
β’ Β½ tsp ground cinnamon
β’ 1 tsp lemon juice π
β’ Salt & pepper to taste
β’ Water (to thin if needed)
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π₯ Instructions
1. Prepare & Grill the Chicken
β’ Mix olive oil, oregano, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
β’ Coat chicken and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
β’ Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high and cook chicken for 5β6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
β’ Let rest before slicing into strips.
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2. Cook the Couscous & Roast the Pears
β’ Cook pearl couscous according to package instructions.
β’ Drain and set aside.
β’ Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
β’ Toss pear slices with olive oil, cinnamon, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
β’ Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10β12 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
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3. Make the Cinnamon Yogurt Sauce
β’ In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
β’ Add water a teaspoon at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth, drizzleable consistency.
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4. Assemble the Salad
β’ Toss cooked couscous with roasted pears, dried cranberries, and arugula.
β’ Top with sliced Greek-spiced chicken and toasted pecans.
β’ Drizzle with cinnamon yogurt sauce and gently toss to combine or serve with the sauce on the side.
β’ Garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
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β¨ A seasonal, hearty salad that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes.