Comfort in a Bowl: Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup

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When the chill sets in and you need a soul-soothing meal, this Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup wraps you in a warm, cozy embrace. It’s the kind of comforting, one-pot dinner that feels like a hug from the inside out. The tender chicken mingles with pearl couscous in a flavorful broth infused with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs—a perfect blend of hearty and light.

Whether you’re under the weather or just in the mood for something nurturing, this soup checks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and makes wonderful leftovers for the next day. The pearl couscous brings a delightful, chewy texture that elevates it beyond your average chicken soup.

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What Kind of Pearl Couscous Should I Use?

Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, comes in both regular and whole wheat varieties. For this recipe, stick with the traditional kind—small, round pasta-like pearls that hold their shape well and absorb flavor beautifully. Toasting them before simmering adds a layer of nuttiness that’s irresistible.

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Ingredients for the Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
• 1 cup pearl couscous
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for heat

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How To Make the Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in garlic, thyme, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Let everything bloom for a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the pearl couscous, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes or until couscous is tender.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and let it heat through for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Brightness

Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

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Serving and Storing This Hearty Bowl

Ladle this soup into bowls while it’s piping hot and serve with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. As it sits, the couscous may absorb more broth—just add a splash of water or extra stock when reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It even tastes better the next day! Just store in an airtight container and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, though the couscous may soften slightly. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the couscous and cook it fresh when serving.

What if I don’t have pearl couscous?

You can substitute orzo or small pasta shapes like ditalini. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional pearl couscous contains wheat. To make this gluten-free, try using gluten-free pasta or rice.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Chicken & Pearl Couscous Soup, you might love these cozy recipes too:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts with velvety sauce and tender meat.
• Funeral Potatoes for a cheesy, nostalgic side.
• One Pan Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for classic comfort in pasta form.
• Giant Zucchini Parmesan if you’re craving a veggie-packed, cheesy main.
• Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti for a slow-cooked, set-it-and-forget-it dinner.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this soup to your Pinterest board so you can make it whenever you need a warm-up.

And tell me how it turned out for you! Did you go spicy with red pepper flakes? Or did you toss in extra lemon for brightness?

I’d love to see your variations. Share your bowl on Pinterest and tag me at Nina Dishes for more cozy meal ideas.

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