One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Couscous (Anti-Inflammatory Dinner Recipe)

One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Couscous is a vibrant, comforting, and anti-inflammatory meal that brings together golden pan-seared chicken, fluffy couscous, and a bright lemon-butter sauce—all in a single skillet. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like garlic, olive oil, parsley, and lemon, this easy one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone following a clean eating or Mediterranean-style diet.

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup, making it a top choice for anyone searching for healthy chicken recipes, one-pan meals, or anti-inflammatory dinner ideas.

🥘 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken

4 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs (skin-on for best flavor)
1 tsp turmeric (powerful anti-inflammatory spice)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp sea salt
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

3 tbsp grass-fed butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon
½ tsp dried oregano or thyme

For the Couscous

1 cup whole-wheat couscous
1¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional: grated Parmesan or dairy-free alternative

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry. Rub with turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sear
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken skin-side down for 5–6 minutes until golden. Flip and cook 3 more minutes. Remove and set aside.
Build the Flavor
Lower heat. Add butter and garlic to the same pan. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and herbs.
Add Couscous
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in couscous and cherry tomatoes.
Combine & Cook
Nestle chicken back into the pan. Cover and cook on low for 10–12 minutes (or bake at 375°F / 190°C for 15 minutes) until couscous is fluffy and chicken is cooked through.
Finish
Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan if using. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

🌿 Why This Is an Anti-Inflammatory Recipe

This meal supports an anti-inflammatory diet thanks to:

Turmeric – contains curcumin, known to reduce inflammation
Extra-virgin olive oil – rich in polyphenols
Garlic & parsley – natural antioxidants
Lemon – supports digestion and immune health
Whole grains – steady blood sugar, gut support

Perfect for those managing joint pain, autoimmune conditions, or chronic inflammation.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple arugula salad and olive oil dressing
Serve with steamed greens like broccoli or spinach
Add a side of roasted sweet potatoes for extra anti-inflammatory benefits
Enjoy with sparkling water + lemon or herbal tea

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

Protein Swaps

Chicken breasts (reduce cooking time)
Wild-caught salmon (omega-3 rich)
Chickpeas for a plant-based option

Grain Options

Quinoa (gluten-free, higher protein)
Millet or brown rice couscous

Dairy-Free / Paleo

Replace butter with ghee or more olive oil
Skip couscous and serve over cauliflower rice

Flavor Boosters

Add capers or olives for Mediterranean flair
Sprinkle chili flakes for metabolism support

📊 Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)

Calories: 480
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Healthy Fats: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 4g
Anti-Inflammatory Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

❓ Related Questions (SEO-Friendly)

Is lemon chicken anti-inflammatory?
Yes. Lemon, garlic, olive oil, and turmeric all help reduce inflammation naturally.

Is couscous healthy for inflammation?
Whole-wheat couscous can be part of an anti-inflammatory diet when paired with healthy fats and lean protein.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. It stores well for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.

Is this good for weight loss?
Yes—high protein, balanced carbs, and healthy fats make it satisfying and metabolism-friendly.

🧠 Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Lemon Butter Chicken with Couscous checks every box:
✔ Anti-inflammatory
✔ Easy one-pan dinner
✔ Family-friendly
✔ Meal-prep approved
✔ High-protein, balanced nutrition