Who doesn’t love a one-pan dinner? Everything cooks together, letting the flavors build in the pan, and best of all—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. My husband, who takes on dinner cleanup, especially appreciated this one!

This dish is packed with bold Mediterranean flavours: garlic, olives, capers, and a secret umami booster—anchovies. If you think you don’t like anchovies, you just haven’t used them the right way. In this recipe, they’re finely chopped and melt seamlessly into the sauce, adding a deep, savoury richness—not a fishy taste, just pure deliciousness.

This is not a shy dish. Pantry staples come together to create a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s anything but boring. The garlic mellows as it cooks, capers bring a bright, briny punch, and the meaty chunks of olives add depth and character. I love using a mix of Kalamata and Castelvetrano olives for contrast. And then there’s the Israeli couscous—it soaks up all the punchy flavors as it simmers, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

Keys to Success for Mediterranean One Pan Chicken & Israeli Couscous

• Use a large (12-inch) nonstick pan with a tight-fitting lid. This ensures the couscous cooks to perfection.
• Give the chicken a head start. I used boneless, skinless thighs, but you can swap in boneless breasts (they’ll cook a little faster). If you prefer skin-on, that’s fine too—just make sure to sear it until golden and crisp.
• Prep before you start. This dish cooks quickly, so having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go makes things easier.
• Toast the couscous. Let it take on a bit of color in the pan before adding the stock for extra depth of flavor.
• Use high-quality stock. Whether chicken or vegetable, a good stock makes a difference in richness. I love the brand Better than Bouillon.
• Finish strong. A drizzle of quick pesto mayo takes this dish to the next level. Top with toasted pine nuts for crunch and fresh basil for brightness.

With just one pan and a handful of bold ingredients, this Mediterranean Chicken & Israeli Couscous delivers big flavour with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dish that feels a little special but is easy enough for a weeknight. The anchovies work their magic, the couscous soaks up every drop of savoury goodness, and a final flourish of pesto mayo and toasted pine nuts takes it over the top. Whether you’re cooking for family or just for yourself, this is one of those meals you’ll want to add to your regular rotation. Give it a try—you might just find your new favourite one-pan dinner!