Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetables

Recipe View In a small bowl, combine the turmeric, ginger, coriander, salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Rub this aromatic spice blend generously over the chicken thighs. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View In the base of a 6- to 7-quart slow cooker, combine the chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with their juices), marinated artichoke hearts, chopped carrots, halved garlic cloves, and cinnamon stick. (Prep time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful color to the chicken. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker, arranging them bone-side up. (Cook time: 16 minutes)

Recipe View Add the sliced onion to the same skillet and sauté over medium-high heat until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. This step caramelizes the onions, adding depth and sweetness to the dish. Transfer the sautéed onions to the slow cooker. (Cook time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become incredibly tender. (Cook time: 120 minutes)

Recipe View Add the green beans, bell pepper, and cilantro to the slow cooker, arranging them over the chicken. Cover and continue to cook on Low for another 3 hours, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the chicken is cooked through. (Cook time: 180 minutes)

Recipe View While the slow cooker works its magic, prepare the couscous. In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the couscous, stir briefly, cover the pot, and remove from heat. Let the couscous sit for 5 to 10 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the couscous is fluffy and tender. (Cook time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View To serve, fluff the couscous with a fork and divide it among plates. Top with the succulent chicken and a generous portion of the flavorful vegetables from the slow cooker. Spoon the delicious juices from the slow cooker over each serving to complete the dish. Enjoy this taste of the Mediterranean!