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ROASTED COQUELET FOR TWO WITH AROMATIC CHICKPEAS

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ROASTED COQUELET FOR TWO WITH AROMATIC CHICKPEAS

ROASTED COQUELET FOR TWO WITH AROMATIC CHICKPEAS

A quick and protein-packed dinner featuring a tender roasted coquelet (small chicken) seasoned with turmeric and served alongside flavorful chickpeas sautéed with onions, garlic, and spicy zhoug sauce. Perfect for Valentine’s Day!

⏲️ Prep Time: 10 min

🍳 Cook Time: 35–40 min

🍽️ Yields: 2 servings

Calories: Approx. 558 kcal per serving

🥣 Ingredients

For the roasted coquelet:

  • 1 small coquelet (max 450 g)
  • A little oil
  • Coarse salt (generous)
  • Ground black pepper
  • Turmeric powder

For aromatic chickpeas:

  • 250 g cooked chickpeas
  • 2 tablespoons cooking water from chickpeas
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons zhoug sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Place coquelet breast-side down on a cutting board. Using kitchen scissors, cut along both sides of the backbone. Flip breast-side up and press firmly to flatten the bird (spatchcock style).
  2. Generously sprinkle coarse salt and turmeric all over the coquelet. Drizzle with oil and rub in well to coat. Grind black pepper evenly on top.
  3. Place the bird in a pan or ovenproof dish just large enough to hold it (max 25 cm diameter) to avoid excessive evaporation of juices. Add 3 tablespoons water.
  4. Roast at 200°C (390°F) for 30–35 minutes. Midway, check the pan juices; if low, add 3 more tablespoons water.
  5. If not browned enough at the end, use the grill for a few minutes—watch closely!
  6. Remove coquelet and cover with foil to keep warm.
  7. Transfer pan juices to a skillet if your roasting dish isn’t stovetop-safe. Heat and add chopped onion, sauté until soft. Add crushed garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  8. Add chickpeas, salt, and black pepper. Heat gently, then add reserved cooking water. Simmer 2 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat, stir in zhoug sauce thoroughly.
  10. Serve chickpeas on a large platter, top with the roasted coquelet, and garnish with extra zhoug if desired. Serve warm.

💡 Tips

  • Use a medium spiced zhoug for balanced heat and herb flavor.
  • Flattening the bird ensures even cooking and faster roasting.
  • Monitor moisture in the pan to keep meat juicy.
  • Pair with a dry Riesling wine for a perfect match.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Romantic dinners or special occasions
  • Quick, high-protein meals
  • Flavorful yet simple poultry dishes
  • Serving with light, fresh sides

📝 Final Thoughts

This roasted coquelet with aromatic chickpeas delivers rich flavor, tender juicy meat, and a spicy herbaceous accompaniment. Quick enough for weeknights yet elegant for celebrations.