1. Home
  2. Dishes
  3. Savory Couscous Teriyaki Chicken

Savory Couscous Teriyaki Chicken

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

Build vibrant glass jars with fluffy couscous, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs for a colorful layered base. Marinate bite-sized chicken cubes in a bold, homemade teriyaki blend featuring soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Grill the chicken on skewers until caramelized and juicy, brushing with extra sauce for a sticky finish. Arrange the salad jars on a minimalist white plate and nestle the warm, glossy skewers alongside. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onion for added crunch. This balanced pairing brings together tender grains, crunchy vegetables, and richly glazed chicken in every serving.

Pin it Share it Email it Print Jump to Instructions
Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Sat, 31 May 2025 15:01:54 GMT
A bowl of rice with chicken and vegetables. Save
A bowl of rice with chicken and vegetables. | recipesfoodyummy.com

This vibrant couscous salad jar paired with sticky teriyaki chicken skewers is as perfect for meal prep as it is for impressing friends at a picnic. The layers of fresh vegetables and herbs in the jar keep things bright and satisfying while the flavorful chicken skewers make this meal feel special every time I make it. Whether you are packing lunch or need a quick dinner, you will love how everything comes together.

I started making these for weekend hikes and now they are my go to when I want something quick but not boring. Those sweet savory chicken skewers are always the crowd favorite at potlucks.

Ingredients

  • Couscous: fine small pasta shape that absorbs flavors beautifully Look for one with a golden color for the freshest result
  • Vegetable broth or boiling water: broth makes the couscous extra savory Choose one with minimal sodium so you control the saltiness
  • Cucumber: adds crunch and freshness Opt for Persian or English cucumbers for very crisp bites
  • Cherry tomatoes: bright pop of sweetness Go for ripe and heavy tomatoes for the best flavor
  • Red bell pepper: a hint of sweetness and color Select peppers with a glossy firm skin
  • Red onion: mild bite Use the freshest to avoid bitterness
  • Fresh parsley: herbaceous lift Flat leaf parsley has stronger flavor
  • Fresh mint: cool undertone Use only the leaves and chop gently so it stays green
  • Olive oil: richness and rounds out flavors Use extra virgin for the fruitiest note
  • Lemon juice: zing and brightness Use freshly squeezed
  • Salt and pepper: essential for bringing out all the flavors
  • Chicken breast: lean protein Look for small even chicken breasts so cubes cook evenly
  • Soy sauce: savory depth Tamari or low sodium if preferred
  • Honey or maple syrup: glaze and sweetness Try local honey if you can
  • Rice vinegar: gentle tang Makes the teriyaki pop
  • Sesame oil: nutty aroma Toasted sesame oil is classic
  • Garlic: aromatic backbone Use fresh garlic for the boldest taste
  • Fresh ginger: little heat and freshness Peel before grating for smoothest texture
  • Sesame seeds and green onions: optional garnish add visual interest and crunch Only slice green onions just before serving for maximum freshness
  • Small wooden skewers: easy cooking and serving Soak if using grill to keep from burning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Couscous:
Pour the dry couscous into a medium bowl then add the boiling water or broth straight from the kettle Cover tightly and let it steam for five minutes Use this time to finely chop all your fresh vegetables and herbs Once the couscous is fluffy fork through it to loosen every grain Then drizzle in olive oil and squeeze over the lemon juice Add the chopped parsley and mint scatter in cucumbers tomatoes peppers and onion Season with salt and pepper Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Let the salad cool fully Pack into glass jars layering gently to showcase the colors and press down gently to help keep the layers distinct
Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl combine soy sauce honey rice vinegar and sesame oil Whisk in freshly grated ginger and minced garlic until you have a glossy marinade Add the cubed chicken and stir well so every piece is coated Cover the bowl and set aside to marinate for at least twenty minutes If you have time leaving it overnight gives even bolder taste
Cook the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the small skewers making sure the pieces touch but are not crowded Heat your grill or skillet until it is good and hot Once hot lay the skewers down and cook for three to four minutes on each side Let the chicken caramelize and develop a deep sticky finish You can brush extra marinade onto the chicken halfway through for added shine and flavor Make sure the meat is cooked all the way through then transfer to a plate and cover loosely to rest
Assemble and Serve:
Choose a clean white ceramic plate for a fresh modern touch Arrange the couscous jars side by side Nestle the chicken skewers along the plate in neat lines for balance Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken just before serving Serve at room temperature or chill the salad jar if packing ahead
A plate of food with chicken and vegetables. Save
A plate of food with chicken and vegetables. | recipesfoodyummy.com

One thing I always look forward to is the first bite of mint in the couscous It makes every forkful stand out This recipe brings back memories of summer outings with my sister as we packed up jars for road trips and always tried to outdo each other's garnish game

Storage tips

Store the couscous salad tightly covered in the fridge for up to two days If packing the chicken with the salad keep the skewers separate in an airtight container for up to three days For best texture let the couscous come to room temperature before serving

Ingredient substitutions

Quinoa or bulgur can stand in for couscous if you want a gluten free or whole grain twist For the skewers use boneless thighs or even tofu cubes for a vegetarian version Maple syrup works just as well as honey in the teriyaki glaze

Serving suggestions

Try piling the salad onto a big platter for a buffet spread Or serve smaller jars for appetizers at parties I love popping a little extra mint into each jar before serving for a surprise burst of flavor

Cultural context

While couscous has origins in North Africa this recipe brings together classic Middle Eastern and Japanese flavors The combination of salad jars and teriyaki skewers is inspired by the variety and portability found in modern lunch culture making it perfect for busy city living or leisurely picnics

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make the couscous salad in advance?

Yes, the couscous salad can be prepared up to a day ahead. Store in sealed jars in the refrigerator and fluff before serving.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes for good flavor, but overnight marination enhances the taste even more.

→ What can I substitute for honey in the marinade?

Maple syrup works well as a substitute for honey, offering a similar sweetness with a subtle flavor difference.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the chicken?

Try marinated tofu cubes or seared tempeh skewers for a plant-based option using the same teriyaki marinade.

→ How should I serve the couscous jars and skewers?

Arrange salad jars on a simple white plate and lay skewers beside them, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures.

→ What garnishes work best with this meal?

Sesame seeds and sliced green onions add crunch, fragrance, and a finishing touch of freshness to the chicken skewers.

Savory Couscous Teriyaki Chicken

Colorful couscous layered with fresh vegetables and zesty chicken skewers for a vibrant meal.

Prep Time
20 mins
Cooking Time
20 mins
Total Duration
40 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: Fusion

Portions Yielded: 2 Serving Size (2 couscous jars and 4 chicken skewers)

Dietary Preferences: Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ Couscous Salad

01 160 g couscous
02 240 ml boiling water or vegetable broth
03 80 g cucumber, diced
04 80 g cherry tomatoes, halved
05 40 g red bell pepper, finely chopped
06 20 g red onion, minced
07 15 g fresh parsley, chopped
08 5 g fresh mint, chopped
09 30 ml olive oil
10 Juice of ½ lemon
11 Salt, to taste
12 Black pepper, to taste

→ Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

13 2 boneless chicken breasts (approximately 350 g), cut into bite-sized cubes
14 60 ml soy sauce
15 30 ml honey or maple syrup
16 15 ml rice vinegar
17 5 ml sesame oil
18 1 garlic clove, minced
19 5 g fresh ginger, grated
20 Sesame seeds, optional for garnish
21 Sliced green onions, optional for garnish
22 4 small wooden skewers

Steps To Follow

Step 01

Place couscous in a heatproof bowl and pour over boiling water or vegetable broth. Cover and let steam for 5 minutes, then fluff grains with a fork. Mix in olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, mint, cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, salt, and black pepper. Allow to cool completely before layering into glass jars, pressing gently for visible layers.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator, or overnight for intensified flavor.

Step 03

Thread marinated chicken pieces evenly onto wooden skewers. Heat a grill or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 3–4 minutes on each side or until chicken is caramelized and cooked through, brushing with extra marinade for a glossy finish. Remove from heat.

Step 04

Position couscous jars on a classic white ceramic plate. Arrange Teriyaki chicken skewers symmetrically beside the jars. Garnish chicken optionally with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes and Tips

  1. For intensified flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and chill the couscous salad thoroughly before serving.

Required Equipment

  • Heatproof mixing bowl
  • Non-stick skillet or grill
  • Wooden skewers
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Glass serving jars

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains soy from the soy sauce and potential gluten if not using gluten-free couscous
  • Sesame present in oil and seeds

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 622
  • Fats: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 65 g
  • Proteins: 46 g