Description
Warm, cozy, and full of flavor—Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup is your go-to for a nourishing, easy dinner or a quick lunch idea that feels like a hug in a bowl. With chewy pearl couscous, tender shredded chicken, and a herby broth, this healthy soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or batch-cooking on Sundays. Whether you’re after a light dinner, a comforting cold remedy, or creative food ideas for meal prep, this satisfying soup checks every box.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
3/4 cup pearl couscous
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Juice of half a lemon
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Optional: red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
Instructions
1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, thyme, oregano, and turmeric. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add shredded chicken and pearl couscous. Continue simmering uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until couscous is tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir in chopped fresh dill. Let the soup rest off heat for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm. Garnish with extra dill or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
Use homemade or high-quality broth for best results.
Slightly undercook couscous if you’re planning to freeze or store for later.
For a vegetarian version, substitute chickpeas and vegetable broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: chicken couscous soup, pearl couscous recipe, healthy soup, easy dinner, comforting soup, quick meal prep