Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup is a warm and hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this soup brings together tender chicken, fresh herbs, and pearl couscous in a rich broth. Its comforting flavors make it a favorite choice for chilly evenings or when you need a satisfying meal that truly nourishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for cold nights.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup simmering on the stove with minimal effort.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup with your favorite seasonings and herbs to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes eight servings, making it ideal for portioning out meals for the week ahead.
• Flavorful Broth: The combination of chicken, herbs, and spices creates a deeply satisfying broth that elevates the entire dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup easier and more enjoyable. With just a few essentials, you’ll be ready to create this comforting dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Needed to cook all ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing chicken.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts, which makes preparation quicker and safer.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Water (enough to cover chicken)
• 1 small bunch of fresh parsley

For the Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, peeled and diced
• 4 celery stalks with leaves, trimmed and diced

For Seasoning

• Your favorite seasoning salt (e.g., garlic pepper, lemon pepper, or herbes de Provence)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Couscous

• 1 cup pearl couscous
• ⅓ cup fresh dill, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)

For Serving

• 1 lemon, juiced
• Dukkah, oyster crackers, or saltines for serving
• Extra virgin olive oil for garnish

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

How to Make Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken thighs in a large pot. Add enough water to cover them completely. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer. Add olive oil, diced onion, celery stalks with leaves, and parsley. Season with your chosen seasoning salt. Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer

Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 1 hour. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This helps keep your broth clear.

Step 4: Cook Couscous

After simmering your soup base, add pearl couscous. Continue cooking for another 10–12 minutes until couscous is tender.

Step 5: Finish with Herbs

Stir in chopped dill and lemon juice before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra dill if desired. Serve hot with dukkah or oyster crackers on the side for added texture.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup!

How to Serve Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

Serving Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup is a delightful experience that enhances the comforting flavors of this dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Dill: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Pair with Crackers

• Dukkah: This Egyptian nut and spice mix adds a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor when sprinkled over the soup.
• Oyster Crackers: A classic addition, they provide a satisfying crunch with every spoonful.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping in the soup and soaking up the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a delicious savory element that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a tangy contrast that works well with the chicken and couscous.

How to Perfect Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

To ensure your Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness during cooking.
• Sauté Vegetables First: Sautéing onions and celery before adding them to the broth enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season your broth well. Use your favorite seasoning salt for added complexity.
• Add Lemon Juice Last: Incorporate lemon juice just before serving to maintain its bright flavor without overpowering the soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more pearl couscous; for a lighter broth, reduce the amount of couscous used.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional flavors and nutrients to your meal.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the textures in your soup perfectly.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooeyness of melted cheese between crispy bread is an indulgent pairing with this comforting dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or meat can be a hearty side that ties in nicely with the soup’s flavors.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges serve as a satisfying side that adds crunch to your meal without overshadowing it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to be aware of:

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning your broth adequately can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt or seasoning salt.
• Overcooking the chicken – If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. Aim for tender chicken that easily pulls apart.
• Neglecting fresh herbs – Fresh herbs enhance flavor. Avoid using dried herbs exclusively; add fresh parsley and dill for a vibrant taste.
• Forget to check the consistency – The soup should be hearty but not too thick. If it’s too thick, add more water or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Choosing the wrong couscous type – Ensure you use pearl couscous, as regular couscous will alter the texture and cooking time significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the soup in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup:

How can I customize Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust spices based on your taste preferences for a unique flavor.

Can I use quinoa instead of pearl couscous?

Yes, quinoa is a great substitute! Just adjust cooking times as quinoa cooks faster than pearl couscous.

Is Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables and couscous, making it a nutritious option.

What should I serve with Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup?

This soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Consider serving dukkah or crackers on the side for added texture.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal ingredients or your favorite spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

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Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Indulge in the cozy warmth of Chicken and Pearl Couscous Soup, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh herbs, and pearl couscous in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep, this hearty soup is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or packed for lunch, this nutritious soup promises to nourish your body and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup pearl couscous
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 celery stalks, diced
• Fresh parsley
• ⅓ cup fresh dill, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Your favorite seasoning salt
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Dukkah, oyster crackers, or saltines for serving
• Extra virgin olive oil for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, place chicken thighs and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to simmer and add olive oil, onion, celery, parsley, and seasoning salt. Stir well.
3. Simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, skimming any foam from the surface.
4. Add pearl couscous and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in chopped dill and lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg