Comfort in a Bowl: Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup
Oh, there’s something so soothing about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? This Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup feels like a cozy hug from the inside out. The tender pieces of chicken swim in a golden broth dotted with those little pearl couscous pearls, almost like tiny edible gems. And the aroma? It fills your kitchen with hints of garlic, onion, and fresh herbs, making it impossible to wait for that first spoonful. I love how every bite combines a bit of chewy couscous with juicy chicken and just the right amount of broth — comfort food that feels fancy but is super easy to make. If you’re craving a bowl that warms your heart and belly, let me show you how simple it is to whip this up!
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them gently until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables soften slightly — about 5 minutes. This base is where the magic begins, with sweet, fragrant notes unfolding.
Step 2:
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s just fragrant (watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn!). Then, toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning everything with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Sauté the chicken until it’s lightly golden on the edges but not fully cooked through—about 4 minutes.
Step 3:
Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, stir in the pearl couscous. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 10–12 minutes until the couscous is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4:
Give the soup a taste test and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for a fresh kick. If you want it thicker, just simmer a little longer; for thinner broth, add a splash more broth or water.
Step 5:
Turn off the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving—the couscous swells a bit more, soaking up flavors perfectly.
Variations & Tips
- Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you want leaner meat; thighs add juiciness.
- Try adding chopped kale or spinach at the end for a green boost.
- If you don’t have pearl couscous, small pasta shapes like orzo or small shells work great too.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream before serving.
- If your soup tastes flat, a tiny pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can elevate it wonderfully.
How I Like to Serve It
This soup is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner served with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping. It’s also a wonderful lunch option, especially during cooler months when you want something hearty and satisfying. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon just before eating brightens it up and makes every bite feel fresh and homey.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if the couscous has absorbed too much liquid.
Closing: This Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup is my go-to for cozy evenings because it’s simple, nourishing, and always hits the spot like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl.
